Chaos on Britain's busiest motorway as two separate lorry fires bring major roads to a grinding halt, leaving thousands of drivers facing hours in traffic. Emergency services are battling blazes on both sides of the M25, causing widespread disruption and significant delays.
The first fire broke out around 3am on the anti-clockwise carriageway between Junctions 27 and 26, forcing a complete closure of this section. Just hours later, a second lorry caught alight near Junctions 28 and 27, necessitating another closure.
National Highways has confirmed that specialist recovery teams are working to free the stricken vehicle between Junctions 27 and 26, with Essex County Fire and Rescue Service leading the response. Traffic officers from National Highways are providing support at both scenes.
Motorists approaching the affected areas are being warned of lengthy delays, with estimated wait times of up to 72 minutes and congestion stretching for five miles. Drivers are advised to seek alternative routes where possible and plan for extra travel time.
The dual closures have created a critical traffic situation on a vital stretch of the M25, putting thousands of commuters and freight drivers at risk of being stuck in gridlock. The ongoing recovery and investigation work is expected to cause prolonged disruption throughout the morning and potentially into the day.