Chaos on the M25: Lorry Blaze Sparks Massive Rush Hour Tailbacks
Lorry Fire Sparks Multi-Vehicle Crash
A multi-vehicle smash on the M25 this morning caused rush hour havoc after a lorry loaded with hay bales burst into flames. The blaze broke out just before 5:30am on the anti-clockwise stretch between Junction 25 (Enfield, A10) and Junction 24 (Potters Bar, A111).
Flames engulfed the hay bales in seconds, prompting a swift response from four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from London Fire Brigade and Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue. By 7:30am, the blaze was mostly under control, though part of the lorry remained smouldering.
Seven-Mile Tailbacks and Gridlock
The motorway closure has triggered traffic chaos with seven-mile tailbacks and delays stretching up to 90 minutes. National Highways confirmed that vehicles trapped in the closure zone are now being allowed through the scene.
A diversion is in place but it’s causing headaches for larger vehicles due to the 4.7m (14.4ft) height restriction and its route through London’s ULEZ zone.
Official Warnings and Advice
National Highways spokesperson: “The M25 anti-clockwise in Hertfordshire is closed between J25 Waltham Cross Interchange and J24 Potters Bar Interchange due to a lorry transporting hay which caught fire earlier. Metropolitan Police, London Fire Brigade, East of England Ambulance Service and National Highways Traffic Officers are attending. Traffic within the closure is being released past the scene.”
London Fire Brigade spokesperson: “Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters have been tackling a lorry fire between J25 and J24. Crews have been working hard and a small part of the HGV remains alight. Please avoid the area if you can.”
Follow This Diversion – Avoid More Delays
Drivers should follow the hollow square diversion signs:
- Exit the M25 at Junction 25 and take the A10 southbound
- Continue to the Great Cambridge Junction with the A406 North Circular
- Follow the A406 westbound to the junction with the A1
- Turn right onto the A1 northbound
- Rejoin the M25 at Junction 23
National Highways urges all drivers to plan ahead and allow extra time to navigate the disruption.
