A major lorry fire has led to severe congestion on the M25 clockwise and A21 southbound this morning (March 20). The incident has resulted in lane closures and heavy delays, particularly between Junction 5 (Chevening and Chipstead) and the A25 Westerham and Sevenoaks turn-off.
Traffic Chaos on the M25 and A21
The lorry fire has caused substantial queues, with congestion stretching back to Junction 4 for Orpington on the M25 clockwise. According to National Highways, drivers are currently experiencing delays of up to 50 minutes as they approach the affected area.
In addition to the fire, ongoing roadworks near Junction 5 of the M25 have exacerbated traffic conditions, leading to slow-moving, stop-start congestion. Kent County Council’s (KCC) Highways department has also reported significant traffic issues on the M26 London-bound, advising motorists to expect further hold-ups.
Emergency services, including Kent Fire and Rescue, are on the scene working to extinguish the blaze and manage the situation. It remains unclear at this stage if there have been any injuries as a result of the fire. KentLive has reached out to emergency services for further updates.
Drivers Warned to Expect One-Hour Delays
As the disruption continues, KCC Highways has issued a warning that delays could last for an extended period. Currently, National Highways reports wait times of approximately one hour in both directions on the M25 near Junction 5.
In an update posted on X (formerly Twitter), KCC Highways stated:
“Traffic on the M25 between J4 & J5 clockwise & M25 J6 and J5 anti-clockwise is being held due to a lorry fire. The link road from the M25 to the A21 southbound is currently closed. @kentfirerescue are in attendance. Expect long delays in the area.“
Traffic Held in Both Directions as Firefighters Battle Blaze
Due to the severity of the fire, authorities have temporarily held traffic on both the clockwise and anti-clockwise carriageways. Traffic is now being stopped between Junctions 4 and 5 on the clockwise route, as well as between Junctions 6 and 5 on the anti-clockwise side. Additionally, the link road from the M25 clockwise to the A21 southbound has been closed.
Motorists are being strongly advised to avoid the area if possible and seek alternative routes. Officials warn that congestion is likely to persist for some time as emergency services continue working at the scene.
Extent of Delays and Congestion
As of this morning, National Highways has confirmed that delays of up to 50 minutes are being experienced by drivers approaching the incident on the M25 clockwise. The congestion has spread back beyond Junction 4 for Orpington. The situation has been made worse by ongoing roadworks at Junction 5, further slowing traffic.
Motorway cameras in the area reveal long lines of stationary traffic as authorities work to manage the situation.
Live Updates and Alternative Routes
KentLive will continue to provide real-time updates as the situation unfolds. Motorists are encouraged to check traffic updates before setting off and consider alternative routes where possible.
If you have any further information, pictures, or updates regarding the incident, please contact our news team at kentlivenewsdesk@reachplc.com.
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Authorities continue to work on clearing the incident and reopening the affected roads, but drivers should prepare for continued disruption throughout the morning. Please stay safe and plan ahead if traveling through the affected area.
