M25 Chaos: Drivers face a nightmare with multi-vehicle crash and massive oil spill
Major Crash Sparks Traffic Mayhem
Drivers on the M25 are stuck in gridlock this afternoon after a nasty smash involving a lorry and two vans between Junction 24 (Potters Bar) and Junction 25 (Waltham Cross). The crash caused a huge 200-metre oil spill, forcing the closure of three of four clockwise lanes. Only one lane remains open, triggering delays of up to 90 minutes and a monstrous seven-mile tailback.
Emergency Teams Race to Clear the Mess
National Highways traffic officers are on the scene, battling to recover vehicles and clear the oil slick. 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.”
The chaos is hitting motorists in Hertfordshire and Enfield hard, with traffic disruptions spilling into Essex too.
More Trouble Elsewhere on the M25
- Overturned caravan near J16 and J17 (anti-clockwise): Two of three lanes closed, causing at least 60-minute delays. Expected clear-up between 4:45 pm and 5 pm.
- Multi-vehicle smash between J6 (Godstone) and J5 (Chipstead, Kent): Two lanes shut, with up to 90-minute delays.
Kent County Council warned:
“Traffic is being released with one lane open on the approach to J5 (Sevenoaks/M26) following an RTC. Emergency services are attending. Approach with caution and expect long delays.”
Top Tips for Motorists
- Plan Ahead: Delay your journey or pick an alternative route if you can.
- Stay Updated: Check live traffic from National Highways and local councils.
- Expect Delays: Give yourself extra travel time, as congestion is severe across multiple M25 sections.
Drivers in Hertfordshire, Essex, and Kent should stay alert as the situation develops. Emergency crews are working flat-out to clear blockages and get traffic moving again.
