M25 and M26 Chaos Following Tesco Lorry Fire
Motorists faced significant delays on the M25 and M26 after a dramatic incident involving a Tesco lorry that caught fire following a crash. Dashcam footage captured the alarming moment the lorry was engulfed in flames, sending a large plume of smoke into the sky. The unfortunate event occurred on the clockwise carriageway between Clacket Lane service station and Junction 6, near Godstone, Surrey, around 10 PM BST on Sunday night.
The driver, fortunately, escaped with only minor injuries, according to police reports. However, the repercussions of the crash have been extensive, leading to major disruptions for drivers throughout the region. National Highways has stated that the closure of the M25 clockwise between Junction 5 near Sevenoaks and Junction 6 near Godstone is expected to last throughout Monday, as extensive recovery and repair efforts are underway.
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Additionally, the M26 westbound between Junction 2A near Wrotham Heath and the M25/A21 is also facing diversions, compounding the traffic issues. Emergency services, including six fire crews from the Surrey Fire and Rescue Service, the South East Coast Ambulance Service, and Surrey Police, quickly responded to the scene. Firefighters worked diligently for approximately ten hours, managing to contain the blaze but not before it caused severe damage to the road infrastructure.
As the situation unfolds, Robert Bell, the Network Operations Manager for National Highways in the South East, emphasized the challenges posed by the incident. He advised motorists to plan their journeys carefully, allowing extra time and avoiding the affected areas whenever possible. The incident was complicated further by a separate issue at the Dartford Crossing, where the east tunnel was closed due to spillage, leading to severe congestion along the diversion routes.
Surrey Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that one engine remained on the scene as of 7 AM BST on Monday morning, actively working to dampen hot spots and ensure that the situation was fully under control. The continuing presence of emergency services reflects the gravity of the damage inflicted by the fire and the need for significant repair work.
National Highways has indicated that the M25 remains closed in both directions between Junctions 5 and 6, with the anticlockwise carriageway having reopened partially, although lanes 3 and 4 are still closed. The recovery of the lorry has proven complex, necessitating specialist equipment due to the extensive damage caused by the fire.
Motorists are urged to exercise patience and understanding as crews work tirelessly to restore normal traffic flow. The M25 and Dartford Tunnel are crucial components of the strategic road network, and National Highways is committed to resolving the issues as quickly and efficiently as possible. As traffic delays extend to around two hours, with several miles of congestion reported, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards on the roadways and the importance of maintaining safe driving practices.
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