Drivers on the M25 are facing severe disruption this afternoon following a multi-vehicle collision and a significant oil spill between Junctions 24 (Potters Bar) and 25 (Waltham Cross).
Incident Overview
The accident, which occurred earlier today, involved a lorry and two vans. The impact resulted in a 200-metre oil spill, forcing the closure of three out of four lanes on the clockwise carriageway.
As a result, only one lane remains open, leading to delays of up to 90 minutes and seven miles of congestion in the affected area.
Emergency Response
National Highways traffic officers are currently on the scene, coordinating recovery efforts. On social media platform X, National Highways confirmed:
“Recovery is on scene for the van, and contractors are en route to assess and deal with the spillage. There are 90-minute delays and seven miles of congestion on approach.”
Motorists in Hertfordshire and Enfield have been significantly affected, with travel disruptions spilling over into nearby areas of Essex.
Additional M25 Delays
The congestion on the M25 is being compounded by other incidents along the motorway:
Overturned caravan near J17 and J16 (anti-clockwise): Two of the three lanes are closed, with delays expected to last at least 60 minutes. The incident is projected to clear between 4:45 pm and 5:00 pm.
Multi-vehicle collision between J6 (Godstone) and J5 (Chipstead, Kent): Two of the three lanes remain shut, with delays of up to 90 minutes.
A spokesperson for Kent County Council advised drivers:
“Traffic is being released with one lane of four now open on the approach to J5 (Sevenoaks/M26) following an RTC. Emergency services are in attendance. Approach with caution and expect long delays in the area.”
Advice for Motorists
Plan ahead: If possible, delay your journey or seek alternative routes.
Check live traffic updates: Monitor National Highways and local council updates for the latest developments.
Allow extra travel time: Expect significant delays across multiple sections of the M25 today.
Drivers in and around Hertfordshire, Essex, and Kent should remain cautious as traffic conditions continue to evolve. Emergency services are working to clear the affected areas as quickly as possible.
