Two lorry fires shut M25 anticlockwise, causing hours delay

A major section of the M25 motorway in Essex remains closed on Tuesday morning following two separate and intense lorry fires, causing severe disruption to the morning commute and significant delays. The incidents have forced the complete closure of the anticlockwise carriageway between junctions 28 and 26, with emergency services warning the disruption will last for hours.

The first fire was reported around 3:05 a.m. BST on June 16 between junction 27, for Epping and the M11, and junction 26 near Waltham Abbey. A second, separate lorry fire subsequently closed the motorway further back between junction 28, for Brentwood and the A12, and junction 27. Pictures from the scene showed bright orange flames and large plumes of smoke emanating from one of the vehicles. Specialist recovery teams are on site working to remove the heavy goods vehicles and their contents, a process described as complex and time-consuming.

National Highways has reported delays of 72 minutes on approach to the affected area, with approximately five miles of congestion. The agency stated that due to the intensity of the blazes, the closure is likely to extend through the morning peak travel period. Essex...