The Dartford Crossing was closed overnight on Christmas Day following a tanker fire near the QEII Bridge, which posed a “risk of explosion.” Traffic was severely disrupted as emergency services worked to manage the situation.
Closure Details
National Highways first reported the closure at 11:21 p.m. on December 25. The incident resulted in the southbound QEII Bridge being shut, along with the M25 clockwise between Junction 31 in Aveley and Junction 1A in Dartford. The east tunnel was also closed as a precaution.
A spokesperson for National Highways stated:
The southbound QEII Bridge at Dartford Crossing is closed due to a tanker fire within close proximity of the QEII Bridge. Port of London have indicated the need for an exclusion zone due to the risk of explosion, which includes the QEII Bridge. Emergency services are on scene.”
Emergency Response
Emergency services, including Essex Fire and Rescue, Essex Police, and the Port of London Authority, responded promptly to the incident. Fire crews worked through the night to contain the blaze, ensuring the safety of the surrounding area.
Traffic Impact
The closure caused significant delays, with motorists advised to seek alternative routes. Traffic flow did not return to normal until 2:00 p.m. on Boxing Day, December 26, when the exclusion zone was lifted, and the bridge reopened.
Investigation Underway
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Authorities are working to determine how the incident occurred and to assess the structural integrity of the affected areas.
