Motorists are facing lengthy delays on the M25 and M26 this afternoon following a serious collision as the heatwave hammers the nation.
The M25 is closed clockwise between J5 Chevening Interchange (Sevenoaks, Hastings A21) and J6 Godstone Interchange (East Grinstead, Eastbourne, Caterham, Godstone A22; Redhill (A25)).
National Highways confirmed that the M26 westbound is also closed between J3 of the M20 and the M25 after a serious collision near J6.
Surrey Police, Surrey Fire and Rescue, South East Coast Ambulance Service, an Air Ambulance and National Highways all have units on scene.
Images from the accident show multiple ambulances and fire engines on both sides of the motorway, in addition to long queues of traffic.
Videos from drivers caught in the scene show an air ambulance hovering above the accident, while people stand outside of their vehicles.
Posting on social media site X, formerly known as Twitter, National Highways: South-East stated that six miles of congestion remains in the area.
Drivers are dealing with long delays on the M25 this afternoon
|
NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
It added that trapped traffic was in the process of being released in both lanes via the junction 6 exit slip.
There is currently no estimated time for reopening as the carriageway will require resurfacing once the scene is cleared.
It added: “If this closure impacts on your planned route, please allow extra journey time. Plan ahead, you may wish to re-route or even delay your journey.
Large stretches of the M25 remain closed
|
NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
Road users travelling clockwise are advised to follow the Hollow Triangle diversion symbol on road signs
- At M25 Junction 5, follow onto A21 and then take the second A25 exit towards Westerham
- Follow A25 through Sundridge, Brasted, Westerham, Limpsfield and Oxted
- Continue along A25 towards Godstone to the A25 / A22 roundabout
- Take 3rd exit onto A22 towards London to M25 Junction 6
- At J6 roundabout, take the 2nd exit and rejoin M25 towards Gatwick
There is no estimated time for the stretch of carriageway to be reopened
|
NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
Road users that intending to use the M26 to the M25 are advised to follow the diversion route
- Continue on the M20 to J1 and then join the M25 at J3 heading clockwise
- Continue on the M25 to J5
- Follow the diversion route detailed above for J5-J6 traffic