Drivers on the M25 are being advised to avoid the area after a coach caught fire on the UK's busiest motorway. The incident occurred on the anticlockwise carriageway between junctions 9 and 8 near Leatherhead, Surrey, during peak rush hour.
Passengers Evacuated Safely
All passengers managed to exit the coach safely before the fire took hold. Footage from the scene shows thick black smoke billowing from the vehicle as traffic passes just feet away.
Emergency Response
Surrey Fire and Rescue Service confirmed they are dealing with the blaze. 'We currently have four fire engines and a water carrier at the scene, and there is lots of smoke in the area. Highways, police, and ambulance services are also in attendance,' a spokesperson said.
'Everyone is accounted for. The stretch of road from junctions 9 to 8, anticlockwise, is currently closed while we deal with the incident. Please avoid the area where possible.'
Delays and Heatwave
National Highways reported two-hour delays on approach to the scene, with 8 miles of congestion. The incident comes as temperatures in the area reached almost 30C, with an amber heat health alert in place for Surrey, Greater London, and the South East.
Traffic is also building in both directions as emergency services work to clear the scene. Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes and allow extra time for their journeys.
