M4 Locked Down After Hay Lorry Blaze Sparks Chaos
Hay Lorry Fire Brings M4 to a Standstill
The M4 near Slough is all but gridlocked after a lorry carrying hay burst into flames. Smoke billowed across the motorway between Junction 6 (Slough) and Junctions 8/9 (Maidenhead), forcing a full westbound lockdown.
Firefighters, kitted out with breathing apparatus and hose reels, wrestled the blaze to damp down the smouldering hay and stop it reigniting.
“The M4 in Berkshire is closed westbound between J6 and J8/9 due to an HGV fire,” confirmed National Highways. “The HGV was carrying hay so fire crews will need to dampen down the load to ensure it does not re-ignite.”
Drivers face hours of delays and are urged to steer clear or follow a diversion: exit at J6, take the A355 southbound, then A332 and A308 towards Maidenhead, rejoining the M4 westbound at Holyport Interchange.
Snow and Ice Bring Northern Roads to a Halt
As if the hay fire wasn’t enough misery, freezing weather and heavy snow are causing havoc nationwide. Northern England is particularly hit, with vehicles abandoned as roads become treacherous and villages cut off by deep snow and ice.
The Met Office has issued an amber warning for heavy snow and multiple yellow warnings for ice across the UK. Temperatures are set to plunge to a brutal -11°C overnight.
“Travel could be disrupted and there is increased risk of injuries on the ice,” warned the Met Office.
M25 Collision Adds To Commute Chaos
Rush hour troubles worsen with a collision on the M25 closing two lanes. Motorists are stuck in seven-mile queues, facing delays of up to an hour and a half.
Freezing roads spell more chaos tonight as temperatures plunge and icy grips tighten.
Fire Crews Battle Blaze, Traffic Cops Warn Motorists
Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue crews from Slough, Maidenhead, Windsor, and Bracknell remain at the scene tackling the fierce lorry fire. Their mission: fully extinguish the flames and clear the motorway.
National Highways is managing traffic and using a grab lorry to remove barrels from the trailer to stop the fire spreading further.
Commuters are urged to avoid the area and seek alternate routes to dodge the snarls.
