The M25 is closed in both directions between junctions 22 (St Albans) and 21A after a large fire broke out at an industrial estate in north London, prompting warnings of a possible secondary explosion.
The blaze, which started this morning at Ventura Park on Colney Street, St Albans, has forced the closure of the UK's busiest motorway. National Highways said the fire is at a commercial premises close to the motorway and that full closures are in place in both directions.
Risk of secondary explosions
National Highways warned that due to the risk of secondary explosions, along with smoke and debris affecting the carriageway, the motorway remains closed as a precaution. Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service has 15 fire appliances at the scene tackling the blaze.
The incident is also close to the railway line, and Network Rail has a representative on site liaising with the fire service, according to National Highways.
Delays and diversions
Drivers face delays of around 60 minutes in both directions on approach to the closures, with about three miles of congestion. Motorists are advised to consider using other routes. A diversion is in place.
People living locally are urged to keep their windows and doors closed and to avoid the area while emergency crews carry out their work, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service said.
Local impact
Staff at a nearby activities centre said they were aware of the fire but were not affected, noting that trains are still running because the smoke is blowing in the other direction. Residents in Potters Bar, about 10 miles east along the M25, reported seeing smoke. A construction worker on the other side of the motorway said they were watching from the site. The incident adds to earlier disruption on the M25 after a crash on the anticlockwise carriageway near the A1(M) junction.
