M25 closed after fire creates explosion risk near South Mimms services
National Highways diverted traffic after flames spread from a lorry carrying lithium-ion batteries
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The M25 motorway was closed in both directions on 11 August 2026 after a fire broke out in a lorry carrying lithium-ion batteries at South Mimms services. National Highways confirmed the closure at 08:15, citing an explosion risk as the reason for shutting the road.
Traffic was diverted onto the A1(M) and M1 while emergency services worked to bring the fire under control. Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service attended the scene, though the exact cause of the fire remains unclear.
M25 and key London motorways close overnight for roadworks
National Highways shuts sections of the M25, A282 Dartford Crossing, A1(M) and M3 between 29 and 30 July 2025
Impact on commuters and freight
The closure affected morning commuters and freight traffic, with delays building on alternative routes. National Highways urged drivers to avoid the area and check its traffic England website for updates. No reopening time has been announced.
South Mimms services, located between junctions 23 and 24, is a major rest stop for drivers on the M25. The site includes fuel stations, food outlets, and parking for heavy goods vehicles. The fire disrupted services at the site, though no injuries were reported.
M25 crashes cause delays between Dartford and South Mimms
Two separate collisions on 10 August led to long tailbacks and diversions for drivers
What happens next
National Highways will reopen the M25 once the fire is fully extinguished and the explosion risk is deemed safe. The agency has not provided a timeline for reopening but will issue updates via its traffic England platform.
Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service will investigate the cause of the fire. The incident may lead to further safety reviews for vehicles carrying lithium-ion batteries on motorways.
Questions this report answers
+Why was the M25 closed on 11 August 2026?
The M25 was closed due to a lorry fire at South Mimms services involving lithium-ion batteries, which created an explosion risk. National Highways confirmed the closure at 08:15 to ensure public safety while emergency services responded.
+How long will the M25 remain closed?
National Highways has not confirmed a reopening time. The motorway will stay shut until the fire is extinguished and the explosion risk is resolved. Updates will be provided via the traffic England website.
+What routes should drivers use instead of the M25?
National Highways diverted traffic onto the A1(M) and M1. Drivers are advised to avoid the area and check traffic England for real-time updates on delays and alternative routes.
+Were there any injuries reported from the fire?
No injuries were reported. Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service attended the scene to tackle the blaze, but the fire was contained to the lorry and did not spread to other vehicles or structures.
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