M25 Closed: Lorry Fire Causes Major Delays Near Hertfordshire (Oct 26) (2026)

Breaking News: Gridlock on the M25! A serious incident has caused significant disruption on one of the UK's busiest motorways. A lorry fire in Hertfordshire has led to the complete closure of a major section of the M25, causing travel chaos for countless drivers. Let's dive into the details.

The incident has shut down the M25 in both directions between junctions 25 (Waltham Cross) and 24 (Potters Bar). Emergency services, including the Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service and National Highways Traffic officers, are on the scene, working to manage the situation.

Key Developments:

• Closure Confirmed: National Highways announced the full closure of the M25 in both directions due to the lorry fire. This happened around 14:49.
• Significant Delays: Motorists are experiencing substantial delays, with reports of up to 45 minutes of hold-ups, and earlier reports of delays reaching 60 minutes.
• Scene of the Fire: Social media images, shared about an hour prior to the report, showed thick smoke billowing from the motorway. Thankfully, the fire appears to be under control now. The Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service was alerted to the scene at 12:54 pm.
• Closure Map: A map illustrates the closure on the M25 anti-clockwise in Hertfordshire between J25 (Waltham Cross) and J24 (Potters Bar).
• Diversion Route: National Highways has established a diversion route, indicated by the hollow square symbol on road signs.

Diversion Route Details:

For those traveling anti-clockwise on the M25, the diversion route is as follows:

1. Exit at J25 of the M25.
2. At the roundabout, take the first exit onto the A10 southbound.
3. Continue on the A10 to the Great Cambridge Junction with the A406 North Circular.
4. Follow the A406 North Circular westbound to the junction with the A1.
5. Turn right onto the A1 northbound.
6. Remain on the A1 northbound to J23 of the M25.
7. At the roundabout, take the first exit to re-join the M25 anti-clockwise.

This incident highlights the potential for unexpected delays on our roads. But here's where it gets controversial... Could better traffic management systems have mitigated the impact of this incident?

What are your thoughts? Do you think the diversion route is adequate? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below!