M25 chaos LIVE: Horror crash causes 12-mile tailbacks at Dartford Crossing
The Dartford Crossing, linking Kent and Essex to the M25 is currently at a standstill due to a crash which is causing incredibly long queues.
Chaos has erupted on a section of the M25 as a crash has halted traffic for around 12 miles, with queues still growing. The Dartford Crossing, linking Kent to Essex - and providing a route into London - is currently gridlocked.
National Highways has predicted cars will be moving again at around 9pm, but this time could be pushed back. Three of four lanes are currently closed.
The affected area is between junctions 1A and 1B clockwise. Officers are predicting delays of around two hours. Kent County Council issued a warning to drivers.
It said: "There is slow moving traffic on the A282 anti clockwise heading towards the Dartford Crossing between M25 J3 and the Dartford Tunnel. Please allow extra time for your journey."
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All lanes are now open
In an update, National Highways confirmed all lanes are now open but traffic is moving slowly.
Recovery of the lorry took longer than usual but is now completed.
National Highways have increased delay time to two hours
National Highways reduced the delay time to 90 minutes, but have put it back up to two hours as congestion continues.
Two lanes are still closed.
Minor delays anti-clockwise
There are also 10 minute delays for motorists heading anti-clockwise between junctions J1A and J31.
Motorists urged to avoid the area
As rush-hour traffic continues causing chaos, motorists are being urged to avoid the area or allow extra time.
90 minute delays are currently in place, though for some it is taking over two hours to get through.
Collision involving a car and lorry
An earlier incident between a car and a lorry closed three lanes on the M25 to allow Kent Police and Kent Fire and Rescue Service to work at scene.
Just before 6pm, lane two was reopened, leaving two lanes closed while recovery agents are en-route.
Delays of over two hours
The National Highways has warned of "severe congestion" on the M25.
Delays are currently standing at over two hours, with motorists urged to avoid the area.
Severe delays after a crash between a car and lorry
National Highways said: "Severe delays and two lanes closed due to recovery work and earlier crash, a car and a lorry involved on M25 clockwise at J1A A206 Bob Dunn Way. Congestion to J29 (Romford / Basildon). Lanes four and five (of five) are closed."
