M25 delays after mobile crane bursts into flames near Dartford
Published: 08:00, 05 November 2013
Updated: 08:20, 05 November 2013
A mobile crane has burst into flames on the M25 near Dartford this morning.
Two lanes of the clockwise carriageway were closed at just after J1B when the vehicle fire broke out at about 6.55am.
It left commuters suffering delays, with congestion back to the Dartford Crossing.
Traffic was still passing the scene as firefighters dealt with the blaze on the hard shoulder.
Two lanes were expected to remain shut into the morning rush-hour.
At 8.30am, the Highways Agency said queues were back to the Dartford Crossing, which is adding to the usual queues over the QE2 Bridge.
Kent Fire and Rescue Service said four engines and a water unit were sent to the scene, while Kent Police and Highways Agency officers helped control traffic.
Crews wearing breathing apparatus used two hose reels and foam to tackle the blaze, which started in the engine compartment.
A thermal imaging camera was used to check for hot spots until firefighters left the scene at just after 8am.
Stories you might have missed
Milky Bar Kid is back... in jail after break-out
Kitten found in gutter with broken leg
Drink-drive arrest after A2 crash
Probation staff set to strike across Kent
More by this author
KentOnline reporter