M11 SHUT After Lorry and Hay Bale Blaze Freaks Out Rush Hour
The M11 northbound between junction 8 (Stansted Airport) and junction 10 remains shut following a massive lorry fire that erupted yesterday afternoon. Around 25 metres of road needs resurfacing after the blazing hay bale inferno.
Chaos on the M11 as Lorry Goes Up in Flames
Thursday rush hour was thrown into turmoil when a lorry carrying roughly 40 tonnes of hay caught fire between junctions 8 and 9. Firefighters arriving on the scene found the vehicle 100% alight.
The road promptly closed and drivers are urged to avoid the area. Station Manager Dave Barnard gave an update at 7pm:
“Our biggest worry is the fire spreading from the lorry to a nearby barley field. We’re working flat out to stop that.”
Firefighters Battle Blaze with Water Shuttled Over
Crews have been using water from a large pond next to the site, shuttling supplies because hydrants are too far away. As well as fighting the fire, teams are liaising with police on the clean-up and arranging removal of the burnt-out lorry.
“We expect this incident to last at least until midnight, so please steer clear tonight,” warned Barnard.
Breaking Down Hay Bales to Douse Remaining Fire
By 9pm, a mechanical digger was deployed to help firefighters protect the surrounding area. They’re breaking apart the burning hay bales to make sure no embers are left to reignite the blaze.
The ongoing scene has snarled traffic and caused serious disruption on this key commuter route. Stay tuned for updates as crews continue their work.
