M25 Crash Triggers 8-Hour Gridlock and Heat Illnesses in 40C Cars
Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jun 24
M25 Crash Triggers 8-Hour Gridlock and Heat Illnesses in 40C Cars
3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jun 24
Summary
Multiple people stranded between M25 junctions 6 and 7 were treated for heat-related illnesses after a van-lorry crash shut the motorway for hours during a red heat alert.
South East Coast Ambulance Service said severe, prolonged queues left some vehicles stationary for hours and slowed crews trying to reach the most serious cases, including coach passengers.
A man in his 30s was airlifted to hospital with a leg injury after the 10:00 BST crash, while Surrey Police said a significant oil spill damaged the road surface and delayed reopening.
Drivers and relatives reported people stuck for 4.5 to 8 hours, with elderly passengers, children and others running low on water as ambulances struggled through traffic without a hard shoulder.
Both lanes of the junction 6 exit slip road have reopened, but the main carriageway remains closed as police seek witnesses and National Highways assesses when it is safe to reopen.