M25 havoc: Drivers stranded on major motorway as huge lorry fire causes road to shut for hours

Surrey Fire and Rescue Service are currently tackling the flames alongside National Highways traffic officers who are on hand to help manage traffic.

But due to the HGV's cargo, it has raised safety concerns with National Highways now taking the decision to completely close this busy stretch of motorway.

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Vehicles caught in the closure are gradually being freed from the motorway, with officials working to establish a controlled release system.

Authorities have confirmed that lanes one and two will remain partially operational to help ease congestion.

One social media user questioned why the entire carriageway needed to be closed when the fire appeared to be on the entry slip road at Junction 9, but National Highways stressed that the full closure was essential for public safety.

Motorists must now follow an extensive diversion that takes them away from the motorway via the A3 northbound towards London.

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At Tolworth, drivers should exit and navigate the interchange roundabout, taking the third exit onto the A240 heading towards Reigate.

The alternative route continues along the A240 before joining the A24 at Organ Junction. At the Ewell bypass roundabout, traffic should take the first exit to remain on the A240, then turn right at the Burgh Heath traffic signals onto the A217.

Drivers can finally rejoin the M25 anti-clockwise at Reigate Hill Interchange after following the A217 southbound.

The incident has caused significant disruption for travellers, with one person reporting their mother was stranded while attempting to reach Heathrow Airport for a flight.

Multiple witnesses have also revealed the scale of the emergency response, with one business owner counting seven fire engines and water bowsers passing Junction 9 within an hour.

Responding to comments on X, National Highways said that it could not provide any estimates for when the carriageway might be cleared.

One driver stuck in traffic warned fellow motorists to "be prepared to write off your afternoon", given the severity of the situation.

Drivers have also been warned about a height restriction of 4.6 metres at a bridge on the A240 immediately after leaving the A3 at Tolworth Interchange.

According to National Highways data, normal traffic conditions are expected to return between 5:45pm and 6pm later today.

Updating drivers, National Highways shared: "The M25 in Surrey has fully reopened anti-clockwise between J10 Guildford A3 and J8 Reigate following an earlier vehicle fire.

"There are three miles of congestion following this incident, so please allow time for delays to clear. Thanks for your patience."