M25 Chaos as Vehicle Blaze Sparks Massive Traffic Jam
Drivers faced major gridlock today after a vehicle fire forced a full stop on the M25 clockwise carriageway between junction 5 (Chipstead and Sevenoaks) and junction 6 (Godstone). Firefighters from Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) battled the blaze, bringing traffic to a grinding halt in both directions.
Traffic Nightmare: Long Delays Across Both Sides
- Clockwise side jammed for three miles with 50-minute delays
- Anti-clockwise queues nearly a mile long, causing 30-minute waits
- All lanes held while crews tackled the fire
National Highways confirmed traffic remains stopped both ways. Motorists are urged to seek alternate routes and brace for heavy delays.
Firefighters Beat Blaze—No Injuries Reported
Kent Fire and Rescue arrived at the scene near Brasted, Sevenoaks, at 12:37pm. Two fire engines pumped hose reel jets to douse the flames quickly and efficiently.
“People are advised to check for traffic updates before travelling towards the affected area,” said a KFRS spokesperson.
Clearance Underway but Delays Persist
By 1:36pm, National Highways stated all lanes between junctions 5 and 6 had reopened. However, clockwise traffic still faces up to six miles of tailbacks, with delays around one hour. Anti-clockwise queues are less severe and expected to ease soon.
Stay Alert: Emergency Crews Remain on Scene
Drivers should keep an eye on live traffic updates as emergency services work to clear the area safely and restore normal flow. Expect ongoing disruptions as the clean-up continues.
