Hundreds of motorists were left stranded for hours in sub-zero temperatures overnight on the M2 in Kent after a tragic collision involving a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) and a pedestrian.
Live from Faversham the M2 hundreds of Drivers remain trapped on the closed carriageway
The incident occurred on the eastbound carriageway between Junction 5 (Sittingbourne) and Junction 6 (Faversham) at approximately 8 p.m. on Wednesday, November 20.
Kent Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit launched an immediate inquiry into the circumstances of the collision, which resulted in a full closure of the eastbound section of the motorway
Despite the efforts of emergency services, the road closure has persisted as investigators examine the scene.
Prolonged Delays and Freezing Temperatures
The incident caused significant disruption, with hundreds of drivers trapped in the closure area overnight. Temperatures plummeted to below freezing, leaving motorists to endure hours in bitterly cold conditions. Reports suggest some drivers were without adequate heating or supplies, prompting concern over the welfare of those affected.
National Highways, in coordination with Kent Police, has been working to manage the situation, redirect traffic, and assist stranded drivers. However, progress has been slow due to the complexity of the investigation and the severity of the incident.
Ongoing Investigation
A spokesperson for Kent Police stated, “An investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic collision is ongoing, and we are appealing for any witnesses or dashcam footage from the area around the time of the incident. We understand the disruption this has caused to motorists and are working as quickly as possible to complete our inquiries.”
National Highways has advised drivers to avoid the area and follow signed diversions. The eastbound M2 remains closed between Junctions 5 and 6, and there is no current estimate for when the road will reopen.
Public Reaction and Appeal for Support
Many drivers took to social media to express frustration and concern over the prolonged delays, while others highlighted the need for improved support for stranded motorists in such situations. One motorist wrote, “We’ve been stuck here for hours with no updates. It’s freezing, and there’s no way to leave.”
Authorities have urged patience as they continue their investigations and have reiterated the importance of maintaining safety at the scene. Anyone with information about the collision is encouraged to contact Kent Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit.
A spokesman for Kent Police said: Drivers are warned of significant delays on the M2 following a serious collision involving a pedestrian on the coastbound carriageway.
The collision happened at around 8.10pm on Wednesday 20 November, between junction 5 near Stockbury and junction 6 for Faversham. Police and other emergency services are at the scene and the coastbound carriageway is expected to remain closed for several hours.
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Motorists are advised to plan alternative routes and are urged to check for travel updates on the Highways website. M2 | Kent | Eastbound | Road Traffic Collision | Carriageway Closure | Between J5 and J6 – National Highways
