Drivers are being warned of long delays on the A2 this morning following a huge lorry fire, which has caused havoc during rush hour.
Lanes 1, 2 and 3 of the A2 in Kent remain closed between B255 (Bean) and M25/A282 (Darenth) after a fire involving a heavy goods vehicle.
National Highways reported that Kent Fire and Rescue Service attended the scene and were able to extinguish the blaze.
Service providers are in attendance to assess the damage caused by the fire, which could take place over the coming hours.
At present, there are severe delays of at least 90 minutes above normal times and around six miles of congestion on the approach.
National Highways stated: "The contents of the HGV is having to be unloaded before the vehicle can be recovered.
"There is a possibility the contents may re-ignite whilst being unloaded."
Long delays remain on the A2 this morning following a lorry fire
|NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
Recovery services remain in attendance to deal with the aftermath, while traffic management is conducted.
Kent Fire and Rescue reported: "Control operators sent five fire engines and a bulk water carrier to the scene, where firefighters wearing breathing apparatus extinguished the blaze using main jets.
"The technical rescue unit also attended and used a telehandler to remove and cool the contents of the vehicle.
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Drivers are facing around six miles of congestion on the A2
|NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
"No injuries have been reported, and the cause is unknown.
"People travelling towards the area are advised to expect delays and to check for traffic updates."
This was reiterated by National Highways, who suggested allowing extra time for journeys, re-routing or even delaying while the incident remains ongoing.
Two fire engines attended the lorry fire on the A2 this morning
|NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
Traffic maps from National Highways show that normal traffic conditions are expected to return at around 11.15am, although this could be extended.
Stationary traffic is seen stretching back along the A2 past the A227, while slow-moving travel can be seen as far back as the M20 approaching the M26.
There are also minor delays near the Dartford Crossing between Kent and Essex, although these are far less severe than the A2.