A MAJOR motorway has closed after a lorry burst into flames on the M4 in Berkshire westbound.
National Highway has warned that the carriageway between Junction 12, Reading, and Junction 13, Newbury, is closed.
Drivers have been caught in bumper-to-bumper traffic on the M4National Highways
National HighwaysThe carriageway between Junction 12, Reading, and Junction 13, westbound has been closed due to a fire[/caption]
Emergency services can be seen dousing the vehicleNational Highways
Multiple fire crews can be seen battling to bring the blaze under control.
Thick black smoke was seen billowing from the vehicle and has forced traffic on the eastbound side to a standstill too.
Officers are at the scene helping to manage the gridlocked traffic, which is backing up for miles.
Motorists are being urged to avoid the area and allow extra time for journeys.
National Highways said: “If this closure impacts on your planned route, please allow extra journey time.
“Plan ahead, you may wish to re-route or even delay your journey.”
On X, Thames Valley Police Roads Policing said: “The M4 in Berkshire is currently closed in both directions between junctions 12 and 13 while the Royal Berkshire Fire & Rescue Service deal with a lorry fire.
“We would urge people to find alternative routes or delay their travel.”
Diversion Route
National Highways said road users are advised to follow the Hollow Square diversion symbol on road signs:
Exit the M4 at J12. At the roundabout take the 1st exit and join the A4.
Continue on the A4 for approx.12.5 miles, to Newbury.
At the A4/A339 roundabout use the 3rd exit and join the A339.
Follow the A339 for approx. 2.5 miles, merging with the A34.
At the Chieveley interchange use the nearside lanes for the M4 J13 roundabout.
At the J13 roundabout take the 1st exit and re-join the M4 westbound.
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