M25 Traffic Latest Update Today, August 18: Broken-Down Lorry Causes Major Delays Near Waltham Abbey; Check Affected Roads, Travel Alert, Diversion Routes, Helpline Numbers & More

M25 Traffic Latest Update Today: A broken-down lorry has closed lanes one and two on the anti-clockwise M25 between Junction 26 (Waltham Abbey) and Junction 27 (M11), causing delays of around 35 minutes.

By: Shubhi Kumar
Last Updated: August 18, 2026 14:26:06 IST

M25 Traffic Latest Update Today: A broken-down lorry is causing major delays on the M25 anti-clockwise carriageway near Waltham Abbey. Lanes one and two are currently closed between Junction 26 (Waltham Abbey) and Junction 27 (M11), with congestion building towards Junction 27.

Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time and check the latest traffic information before setting off.

M25 Traffic Update Today

The current disruption is on the anti-clockwise M25 between Junction 26 and Junction 27.

A stranded lorry has blocked lanes one and two of the four-lane carriageway, causing traffic to slow significantly through the affected section.

M25 Traffic Update Today: What Happened Near Waltham Abbey?

A lorry broke down on the anti-clockwise carriageway near Waltham Abbey, resulting in the closure of two lanes.

The incident is affecting traffic travelling towards the M11 and Junction 27, with congestion forming behind the obstruction.

M25 Traffic Update Today: What Caused The Delays?

The delays are being caused by the broken-down lorry occupying lanes one and two.

With only two of the four lanes available, traffic is being forced to merge around the obstruction, resulting in slower-moving traffic and a growing queue.

M25 Traffic Update Today: How Long Are The Delays?

Current reports indicate that delays are around 35 minutes, with congestion stretching back towards Junction 27.

Travel times can change quickly depending on how long it takes to remove the stranded vehicle and reopen the affected lanes.

M25 Traffic Update Today: Affected Routes

The main affected section is:

  • M25 anti-clockwise
  • Between Junction 26 and Junction 27
  • Junction 26: Waltham Abbey
  • Junction 27: M11
  • Lanes affected: Lanes 1 and 2

Drivers approaching the area should allow additional time for their journey.

M25 Traffic Update Today: Junction Disruptions

Junction 26 (Waltham Abbey) and Junction 27 (M11) are the key junctions affected by the current incident.

Traffic approaching Junction 27 is experiencing congestion as vehicles queue behind the broken-down lorry.

Motorists should follow overhead signs and any instructions from traffic management teams.

M25 Traffic Update Today: Alternative Routes

Drivers who need to avoid the affected anti-clockwise section may consider local alternative routes around Waltham Abbey and the M11, depending on their destination.

However, motorists should check live traffic conditions before diverting, as local roads can also become congested when motorway traffic is diverted.

M25 Traffic Update Today: Planned Overnight Closures

Motorists travelling later on Tuesday, August 18, should also be aware of planned overnight roadworks on the M25.

A scheduled closure is planned at M25 Junction 20, involving the exit slip road lane 1/slip road, from 10pm on Tuesday, August 18, until 5:30am on Wednesday, August 19.

Drivers travelling overnight should check the latest roadworks information before beginning their journey.

M25 Traffic Update Today: When Will The Lanes Reopen?

There is currently no confirmed reopening time for lanes one and two affected by the broken-down lorry.

The lanes are expected to reopen once the stranded vehicle has been safely dealt with and the carriageway is confirmed to be safe for traffic.

Motorists should continue checking live updates before travelling through the area.

M25 Traffic Update Today: Traffic Advice For Drivers

Drivers travelling around the affected section should:

  • Allow extra time for their journey.
  • Check live M25 traffic updates before setting off.
  • Follow overhead motorway signs.
  • Maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead.
  • Avoid sudden lane changes near the congestion.
  • Follow instructions from traffic officers.
  • Consider an alternative route if delays become severe.

M25 Traffic Update Today: Latest Live Updates

The situation on the M25 near Waltham Abbey can change rapidly as the broken-down lorry is recovered.

The latest reported position is that lanes one and two remain affected on the anti-clockwise carriageway between Junction 26 and Junction 27, with delays of around 35 minutes.

Drivers should check live traffic information for the latest lane restrictions, queue lengths and travel times before starting their journey.

M25 Traffic Update Today: Helpline Numbers

For emergencies on the motorway, motorists should call 999.

For non-emergency police matters, drivers should use 101. Motorists should never stop on the motorway to make a call unless they are in a safe location.

Latest status: A broken-down lorry is causing major delays on the M25 anti-clockwise between Junction 26 and Junction 27, with lanes one and two closed. Planned overnight works are also scheduled at Junction 20 from 10 pm tonight.

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