London motorway chaos: M25 closed after major industrial fire near St Albans

Major blaze near St Albans sends thick smoke across motorway as emergency services battle fire

A major industrial fire near London has forced the closure of the M25 in both directions, triggering widespread traffic disruption and fears of possible explosions.

The blaze broke out at a commercial premises in Ventura Park, near St Albans, shortly after 9.20am on Tuesday. Huge plumes of thick smoke could be seen rising over the motorway as firefighters rushed to contain the fire.

The M25 has been closed between Junction 21A and Junction 22, with motorists warned to avoid the area and use alternative routes.

Emergency services took the decision to close the motorway amid concerns over smoke, falling debris and the potential for secondary explosions from the industrial site.

Multiple fire appliances have been deployed to tackle the blaze, while police officers are also at the scene managing the emergency and surrounding traffic.

National Highways has warned motorists to expect significant delays and congestion, urging drivers to allow extra time for their journeys or avoid the affected area altogether.

The incident has caused major disruption on one of London’s key orbital routes, with congestion building on surrounding roads as traffic is diverted away from the closed section.

Residents close to the fire have been advised to keep windows and doors closed because of the heavy smoke.

The fire is also close to a railway line, with Network Rail representatives liaising with firefighters as emergency services assess the situation.

The cause of the fire has not yet been established.

Emergency crews remain at the scene and the M25 will stay closed while firefighters work to bring the blaze under control and authorities determine when it is safe to reopen the motorway.

Motorists are being urged not to travel towards the affected section and to follow official traffic and emergency-service instructions.

The incident remains ongoing.