M25 live updates as two lanes close after crash near Chertsey, and car fire near Godstone

Key Takeaways:

• Two simultaneous incidents on the M25 caused major traffic disruptions.
• A crash near junction 11 (Chertsey) led to lane closures and delays.
• A car fire near junction 6 (Godstone) resulted in significant delays up to junction 7.
• Delays of up to 40 minutes were reported near Godstone.
• National Highways reported 10-minute delays near Chertsey.

Simultaneous Incidents Disrupt M25 Traffic

Motorists on the M25 faced significant delays after two separate incidents occurred simultaneously on the motorway on February 20, just after 2:30 p.m. A crash near Chertsey and a car fire near Godstone resulted in lane closures and heavy congestion, impacting thousands traveling anticlockwise.

Crash Near Chertsey Closes Lanes

A crash took place heading anticlockwise just after junction 11 on the A320, known as St Peter’s Way, near Chertsey. The incident led to the closure of two lanes, causing congestion building up to junction 13. Drivers on the opposite side of the road near the Wisley Interchange also experienced slow-moving traffic due to onlookers and residual delays.

Traffic monitoring service Inrix reported that the crash significantly affected traffic flow, leading to delays in the area. National Highways indicated that motorists faced delays of approximately 10 minutes against expected travel times near Chertsey.

Car Fire Near Godstone Causes Major Delays

At junction 6 near Godstone, a car fire was reported heading anticlockwise on the M25. The incident led to lane closures and caused substantial delays extending from junction 6 to junction 7, near the M23 Interchange.

Inrix noted that the car fire exacerbated traffic conditions, with vehicles coming to near standstill speeds. National Highways reported delays of up to 40 minutes against expected travel times in the Godstone area, urging drivers to plan ahead and consider alternative routes.

Widespread Congestion and Traffic Impact

The simultaneous incidents resulted in significant congestion along the M25, affecting both local and through traffic. Delays extended back to junction 13, with increased travel times and frustration for motorists. Slow-moving traffic was also reported on the opposite side of the motorway due to drivers slowing down as they passed the scenes of the incidents.

Official Advisories and Ongoing Updates

Authorities emphasized the developing nature of the situation. “Motorists should expect delays and plan their journeys accordingly,” advised National Highways. They recommended checking the latest traffic updates and considering alternative routes where possible.

Traffic services continued to monitor the situation, providing updates as emergency services worked to clear the incidents and restore normal traffic flow.

Conclusion

The twin incidents on the M25 underscore the vulnerability of major road networks to simultaneous disruptions. Motorists are advised to remain patient, stay informed through official channels, and prioritize safety amidst the unexpected delays.