A major lorry fire has brought a section of the M25 to a complete standstill during Tuesday morning's rush hour, creating chaos for thousands of commuters and triggering severe delays across Surrey.
The incident occurred between Junctions 10 and 11 on the clockwise carriageway, forcing emergency services to implement a full closure while they tackle the blazing vehicle. National Highways has confirmed the closure is likely to remain in place for several hours as recovery operations continue.
Travel Chaos Mounts
Drivers are facing enormous delays of up to 90 minutes as traffic queues stretch for miles in both directions. The anti-clockwise carriageway remains open but is experiencing significant congestion due to rubbernecking drivers.
National Highways issued an urgent warning to motorists: "There is currently 7 miles of congestion on the approach to the closure, causing delays of 90 minutes above usual travel time. Please allow extra journey time if travelling in the area this morning."
Diversion Routes Activated
Emergency diversion routes have been put in place, guiding motorists along A-road alternatives. However, these routes are already becoming heavily congested as traffic seeks ways around the closed motorway section.
The affected area between Junctions 10 and 11 serves the crucial interchange for the A3, making it a particularly busy stretch of Britain's busiest orbital motorway.
Emergency Response
Surrey Fire and Rescue Service remains on scene dealing with the aftermath of the lorry fire. Police are assisting with traffic management while recovery operations prepare to remove the damaged vehicle.
Commuters are being advised to completely avoid the area if possible and consider alternative travel arrangements for the morning. The disruption is expected to continue through the peak travel period with no immediate timeframe for reopening the affected carriageway.
