A significant lorry fire has caused major disruption on the M25 motorway in Hertfordshire, forcing police to close a key stretch of the London orbital route. The incident occurred on Thursday, 16th January 2026, with emergency services rushing to the scene.
Emergency Response and Road Closure Details
The M25 is closed anti-clockwise between junctions 25 for Waltham Cross and 24 for Potters Bar. The closure was implemented to allow Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue Service to deal with the blazing vehicle safely. National Highways traffic officers are assisting at the location to manage the resulting traffic chaos.
Official Diversion Route for Drivers
National Highways has activated a signed diversion route, marked by a hollow square symbol on road signs. Motorists are advised to follow this path to navigate around the closure:
- Exit the M25 anti-clockwise at Junction 25.
- At the roundabout, take the first exit onto the A10 southbound.
- Continue on the A10 to the Great Cambridge Junction with the A406 North Circular.
- Follow the A406 North Circular westbound to its junction with the A1.
- Turn right onto the A1 northbound.
- Remain on the A1 northbound to Junction 23 of the M25.
- At the roundabout, take the first exit to re-join the M25 anti-clockwise.
Ongoing Travel Disruption and Advice
The closure is expected to remain in place for several hours while fire crews extinguish the blaze and recovery operations begin. Drivers are being urged to avoid the area if possible and to allow extra time for their journeys. Significant delays are building on the diversion route and surrounding local roads as traffic seeks alternative paths. Commuters and freight operators are likely to face extended disruption throughout the afternoon of January 16th.
National Highways is advising all road users to check live traffic conditions before setting out. The incident serves as a stark reminder of how quickly a vehicle fire can bring one of the UK's busiest motorways to a standstill.
