Massive Straw Lorry Blaze Sparks M40 Chaos
Just before 8pm tonight, fire crews rushed to tackle a huge blaze on the M40 southbound exit slip at Junction 9. A 27-tonne articulated lorry full of straw went up in flames, sparking a major emergency response.
Firefighters Bring in Heavy-Duty Gear
Crews from Bicester, Banbury, Charlbury, Rewley Road, and Brackley stations scrambled to the scene. Specialist water carriers from Wheatley and Towcester were also called in. The Hook Norton team delivered telehandling equipment to safely remove the burning straw and control the fire.
Road Closures and All-Night Efforts
Thanks to teamwork with the Highways 1 Traffic Officer Service, the spread of the fire was stopped by closing the slip road. Firefighters are battling the flames through the night, with extra crews from Slade Park and Deddington stepping in to help.
Driver Safe, but Slip Road Closed Until Saturday
The fire was accidental, and thankfully the driver escaped without injury. However, the slip road remains closed until Saturday for recovery and resurfacing work.
