Drivers have been warned to expect serious delays this afternoon after a road collision caused a major motorway to operate at 5mph.
The M25 in Essex is expected to be delayed until the evening after a serious road traffic collision forced a complete closure between Junction 27 and Junction 28.
The closure affects the stretch between Junction 27, where the M25 meets the M11, and Junction 28 at Brentwood, one of the busiest sections of the motorway network.
Emergency services were called to the scene following the collision, with Essex Police confirming officers are in attendance.
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National Highways Traffic Officers are also on site and are working to manage traffic and assist motorists as congestion continues to build.
The full extent of the collision has not yet been confirmed, but the incident has been described as serious, prompting the decision to close the carriageway in the interest of safety.
Drivers are facing significant delays, with traffic queues stretching for several miles during the busy travel period.
National Highways has warned road users to expect ongoing disruption while emergency crews carry out their work and the scene is made safe.
The road is currently operating at 5mph
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Motorists are now being urged to plan ahead, allow extra journey time, and consider alternative routes where possible.
A diversion route has been put in place, and drivers are advised to follow the Hollow Triangle diversion symbols displayed on road signs.
Vehicles are being directed off the M25 at Junction 27 onto the M11 towards London. From there, traffic is being routed onto the A406 North Circular Road before continuing onto the A12 at the Redbridge Interchange.
Drivers are then advised to follow the A12 towards Chelmsford, passing Gallows Corner, before rejoining the M25 at Junction 28 via the Brook Street roundabout.
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Normal traffic conditions are expected to return by 3pm earliest
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National Highways has stressed that the diversion route may also experience congestion due to the volume of traffic being redirected.
Road users are therefore being encouraged to check traffic conditions before setting off and to delay non-essential journeys if possible.
Further updates are expected as the situation develops. National Highways has advised motorists to use the Traffic England website, travel apps, or its regional social media feeds for the latest information.
Drivers have been urged to follow the diversion route in place
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At this stage, there is no confirmed time for when the M25 will fully reopen. Drivers are urged to remain patient, follow instructions from traffic officers, and drive with caution in the affected areas as emergency services continue their work.
According to reports, normal traffic conditions are expected to return by 3pm at the earliest.
The M25 is one of the busiest roads in the UK with hundreds of thousands of users travelling on it every day.
The RAC shared: "When joining the M25, you may want to be mindful of the below accident blackspots. Plan your journey with the RAC Route Planner and keep up to date with any major M25 traffic update."