Drivers are being advised to avoid the M25 after a massive coach fire broke out on the UK's busiest motorway. The incident occurred on the anticlockwise carriageway between junctions J9 and J8 in Surrey, causing significant traffic disruptions.
Coach Fire Details
The coach caught fire with passengers on board, but all individuals managed to evacuate safely. Footage from the scene shows thick black smoke billowing from the vehicle, with traffic passing just feet away.
Emergency Response
Surrey Fire and Rescue Service reported: 'We are dealing with a coach fire on the M25, junction 9 to 8, Leatherhead. We currently have four fire engines and a water carrier at the scene, and there's lots of smoke in the area. Highways, police and ambulance services are also in attendance.'
All passengers are accounted for, and the stretch of road from junctions 9 to 8 anticlockwise is closed while emergency crews handle the incident. Motorists are urged to avoid the area if possible.
Traffic Delays and Heatwave
The latest National Highways alert indicates two-hour delays on approach to the scene. The incident happened during peak rush hour, with temperatures nearing 30°C. An amber heat health alert is in effect for Surrey, Greater London, and the South East of England due to a scorching heatwave.
Traffic is also building in both directions. National Highways South-East tweeted: 'Traffic stopped on the M25 anticlockwise in Greater London between J9 Leatherhead and J8 Redhill due to a coach fire. Emergency services are working on scene. Current delays of 58 minutes on the approach, with 8 miles of congestion.'
Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes and allow extra travel time.
