Major M25 Motorway Closure After Two Lorries Crash and Bring Down Power Cables
The M25 motorway, London's vital orbital route, has been completely shut down in both directions following a serious collision involving two heavy goods vehicles near Brentwood. The incident, which occurred on the anticlockwise carriageway, has resulted in the destruction of overhead power lines, creating a hazardous situation that requires immediate attention from emergency services and utility engineers.
Complete Closure Between Junctions 27 and 28
National Highways has confirmed that the motorway is now closed clockwise at Junction 27 and anticlockwise at Junction 28, effectively blocking all traffic between these critical interchange points. The closure spans the section between Junction 28 at Brentwood and Junction 27 at the M11 interchange, creating significant disruption to one of the busiest road networks in the United Kingdom.
Motorists traveling anticlockwise are experiencing severe delays of up to 25 minutes, with traffic backing up for miles as alternative routes become congested. The situation is expected to worsen during peak travel periods as the closure continues.
Emergency Response and Safety Measures
Essex Fire and Rescue Service crews are currently on scene managing the incident. A spokesperson emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating: "Our crews are currently on scene following a collision between two lorries. Drivers are asked to remain in their vehicles while we deal with the incident."
The fire service is working in coordination with Essex Police and National Highways to secure the area and make it safe for both emergency responders and stranded motorists. The presence of downed power cables presents a significant electrical hazard that requires specialized handling by utility engineers.
Official Statements and Public Advisory
National Highways released an official statement detailing the circumstances: "The M25 is now closed in both directions between J28 (Brentwood) and J27 (M11). The collision, which occurred anti-clockwise, has taken out a power line and requires immediate attendance by engineers across both carriageways to make safe. We will keep you updated."
Essex Police have issued a strong advisory to the public, asking motorists to avoid the area entirely if possible. Authorities have warned that "the road may be closed for some time" as engineers work to safely remove the damaged power infrastructure and clear the wreckage from both carriageways.
Broader Impact and Travel Disruption
The complete closure of Britain's busiest motorway is causing widespread travel disruption across Southeast England. The M25 typically carries approximately 200,000 vehicles daily, with the affected section being particularly crucial for freight movement and commuter traffic between London and surrounding counties.
- All traffic is being diverted onto local roads, creating congestion in Brentwood and surrounding areas
- Emergency services are prioritizing scene safety before beginning clearance operations
- Motorists are advised to check traffic updates before beginning journeys in the region
- Alternative routes including the A12 and A127 are experiencing increased traffic volumes
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of critical infrastructure and the cascading effects that major accidents can have on regional transportation networks. As emergency services continue their work, travelers should prepare for extended disruption and consider postponing non-essential journeys through the affected corridor.
