Chaos on the M25 as vehicle blaze sparks huge delays near Brentwood

A serious vehicle fire has shut down the M25 between Junctions 27 and 28, causing severe traffic gridlock in Essex. Emergency services, including Essex Police and the Air Ambulance, rushed to the scene and are battling the blaze while managing the snarled traffic.

Traffic at a Standstill

Both carriageways are at a standstill with delays stretching for miles. National Highways reports around 2 miles of congestion in each direction. The clockwise carriageway is completely closed between Junction 27 (M11) and Junction 28 (A12 near Brentwood), while traffic is also stopped on the anticlockwise side as responders tackle the crisis.

A National Highways spokesman said:

The M25 in Essex is closed clockwise between J27 and J28 due to a serious vehicle fire. Traffic is also stopped on the anticlockwise carriageway. Emergency services including Essex Police, Air Ambulance, and Traffic Officers are on scene helping with traffic control.

Follow These Diversion Routes

Drivers urged to follow the Hollow Triangle diversion signs to avoid delays

  • Exit M25 at Junction 27 and join the M11 towards London.
  • At M11 Junction 4, bear left onto the A406 (North Circular Road) southbound.
  • At A406/A12 ‘Redbridge Interchange’, take the left for A12 towards Chelmsford.
  • Approach the A12/A127 ‘Gallows Corner’ roundabout, take the 2nd exit continuing on the A12 for 2 miles to the ‘Brook Street’ roundabout.
  • Take the 3rd exit to rejoin the M25 at Junction 28 anticlockwise.

Delay Warnings

Drivers face at least 45-minute delays with 3 miles of queueing clockwise and 4 miles anticlockwise. Commuters are advised to allow extra travel time, re-route, or delay journeys where possible.

Stay tuned for updates as emergency crews continue to clear the scene.

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