M25 chaos: Lorry fire causes major motorway to shut as smoke levels cause delays and safety concerns
Drivers have been warned to "expect delays" this afternoon after a lorry fire forced the M25 motorway in Kent to close in both directions this afternoon. The anti-clockwise section between Junction 6 (Godstone) and Junction 5 (M26) has been shut following the blaze.The clockwise carriageway has now also been closed due to smoke levels, according to National Highways. The fire service is currently at the scene attempting to tackle the fire, which is "expected to take some time to extinguish".Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailingmotoring@gbnews.ukThe lorry fire has caused all lanes to close on the M25 junctionNATIONAL HIGHWAYSMotorists are now being advised to allow extra time for journeys in the area.The A21 northbound link road to the M25 clockwise is closed, blocking all access to the M26 westbound, with drivers told to avoid the area.Kent Fire Service crews are on scene alongside National Highways traffic officers who are supporting the emergency response with road management. A spokesperson for National Highways South-East posted on social media: "The fire is expected to take some time to extinguish." The closure is causing significant disruption in the area, with drivers unable to access multiple key routes.Drivers are now being directed to follow the Hollow Square diversion symbol on road signs.The diversion route takes motorists off the M25 at Junction 6, then via the A22 towards East Grinstead. At the A22/A25 roundabout, drivers should take the first exit onto the A25 towards Westerham. The route continues through Limpsfield, Oxted, Westerham, Brasted and Sundridge. At the A25/M25 traffic signal junction, motorists can turn left to rejoin the M25 towards Dartford Crossing.National Highways advised: "If this closure impacts on your planned route, please allow extra journey time. Plan ahead, you may wish to re-route or even delay your journey." The agency said normal traffic conditions are expected to return between 3:15pm and 3:30pm later today. Posting on X, National Highways shared: "The M25 in Kent remains closed anti-clockwise between J6 (Godstone) and J5 (M26) due to a lorry fire. Traffic is also stopped on the M25 clockwise, M26 westbound and A21 northbound. The burning trailer will now be moved off the motorway."LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:Drivers have been urged to follow the diversion put in place on the roadNATIONAL HIGHWAYSThe vehicle has now been moved off the motorway, with National Highways releasing traffic on the M25 clockwise, M26 west and A21 northbound. The agency added that it hopes to re-open the M25 anti-clock "soon".
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