Fiery Straw Blaze Closes M40 Slip Road
Just before 8pm tonight, a 27-tonne straw load on an articulated lorry went up in flames at the M40 southbound exit slip, Junction 9.
Big Response from Fire Crews
Firefighters from Bicester, Banbury, Charlbury, Rewley Road, Thame, and Brackley raced to the scene. Specialist water carriers from Wheatley and Towcester also joined the fight, bringing heavy-duty telehandling gear with Hook Norton 1 crew for the tricky task of safely moving the burning straw.
Road Closed, Firefighters Battle Blaze All Night
Thanks to a swift partnership with Highways 1 Traffic Officer Service, the slip road was shut down to stop the flames spreading. Relief crews from Slade Park and Deddington took over as the fire services battled through the night to douse the stubborn blaze.
Driver Unharmed but Major Delays Expected
The fire was accidental, with the driver managing to escape unscathed. The slip road will remain closed until Saturday for recovery and resurfacing work, leaving commuters bracing for disruption.
