Buckle up, London commuters—your morning just got a lot messier! As of 4:16 AM EDT on May 14, 2025, London travel news LIVE: Section of M25 closes during rush hour following waste lorry crash is dominating headlines. A waste lorry overturned on the M25, spilling oil, diesel, and waste across the anticlockwise carriageway between Junction 6 (Godstone) and Junction 5 (Chevening). This chaotic crash, which happened around 3:45 AM, has shut down a critical stretch of the motorway, leaving drivers stranded and facing severe delays. National Highways warns this closure could last through the morning rush, with a complex cleanup operation underway. Let’s dive into the details, from what’s happening on the ground to how you can navigate this traffic nightmare.
What Happened on the M25?
Picture this: a waste tanker and another lorry collide in the dead of night. The tanker flips, rupturing and spewing its messy contents across the M25. By sunrise, the motorway’s a disaster zone. National Highways reports the spillage—oil, diesel, and waste—requires an “extensive and complex” cleanup, likely followed by resurfacing. Emergency services are on the scene, working tirelessly, but the road won’t reopen anytime soon. Motorway Cameras suggest normal traffic might not resume until 12:45 PM, meaning hours of gridlock for commuters. Posts on X capture the frustration, with drivers calling it a “traffic nightmare” and sharing photos of endless queues.
London Travel News LIVE: Section of M25 Closes During Rush Hour—Diversion Routes
With the M25 shut, drivers need a game plan. National Highways has set up a diversion route:
- Exit at Junction 6: Head onto the A25 toward Westerham.
- Follow the A25: Continue through Oxted to Sundridge.
- Rejoin at Junction 5: Merge back onto the M25 after Sevenoaks.
This detour isn’t a quick fix—expect delays of at least 45 minutes, with congestion stretching back to Junction 7 (M23). Traffic’s also crawling on the opposite side as curious drivers slow to gawk. If you’re heading to Gatwick or Heathrow, add extra time or consider alternative routes like the A3, though check for closures there too.
Why the M25 Matters
The M25 isn’t just any road—it’s London’s lifeline, dubbed the “Road to Hell” by frustrated drivers. A recent AA poll crowned it the UK’s worst motorway, with 40% of drivers citing its relentless congestion. Handling over 270,000 vehicles daily at busy junctions like J10, it’s a critical artery for commuters, airport travelers, and freight. Today’s crash only amplifies its notorious reputation. The spillage’s environmental impact is another concern, as diesel and waste could harm local ecosystems if not contained quickly. Cleanup crews are racing against the clock to mitigate the damage.
Other Travel Updates Across London
While the M25 steals the spotlight, other disruptions are hitting London. The Gatwick Express and Southern services via Three Bridges are back to normal after earlier issues, and TfL reports smooth sailing across all Tube lines. However, don’t get too comfortable—planned closures loom. From May 16-19, the M25’s Wisley Interchange (J10) will close for resurfacing, halting transitions to the A3. If you’re planning a weekend getaway, check National Highways’ website for updates. Posts on X also mention a separate incident at J10, where one lane’s closed due to another accident, adding to the chaos.
Tips to Survive the Commute
So, how do you dodge this mess? First, avoid the M25 between J6 and J5 if possible. Use apps like Waze or Google Maps for real-time traffic updates. If you’re stuck, pack patience and snacks—delays could stretch for hours. Public transport’s a solid backup; TfL’s network is running well, so consider the Tube or buses – even if it means a longer commute. For drivers, check diversion routes and fuel up—National Highways suggests ensuring your tank’s full before tackling diversions. Stay updated via X or National Highways’ live alerts.
What’s Next?
As emergency crews battle the M25’s mess, Londoners are bracing for a tough day. The London travel news LIVE: Section of M25 closes during rush hour following waste lorry crash saga is far from over. Will the road reopen by noon, or will delays drag on? Keep an eye on live updates, and share your commute stories in the comments—we’re all in this traffic jam together. For now, stay safe, plan ahead, and maybe dream of a day when the M25 isn’t headline news.