Major Motorway Incident Brings M11 to Standstill During Peak Travel
A significant multi-vehicle crash has triggered severe disruption on the M11 motorway this afternoon, resulting in extensive delays and substantial congestion during the busy evening rush hour period.
Collision Details and Immediate Impact
The incident occurred at approximately 2:45 PM near Harlow in Essex, involving multiple vehicles on the southbound carriageway. National Highways has confirmed that traffic is currently being held between junctions 8 and 7A while emergency services manage the scene.
Initial reports indicate that the collision has led to a complete standstill for motorists, with traffic cameras revealing extensive tailbacks stretching for miles. The situation has escalated rapidly, creating chaotic conditions for commuters and travellers.
Official Updates and Response Efforts
According to National Highways: East, traffic officers are actively working to clear the roadway. Their efforts include towing affected vehicles to the hard shoulder and addressing a reported spillage from the crash, which is complicating recovery operations.
The agency has issued a stark warning to drivers, advising of 60-minute delays and approximately five miles of congestion building on the approach to the incident. These figures are expected to fluctuate as the situation develops and recovery work continues.
Travel Advice for Affected Motorists
Commuters and other road users are strongly urged to avoid the affected section of the M11 if possible, seeking alternative routes to bypass the disruption. Those already caught in the congestion should prepare for extended journey times and follow updates from official sources.
National Highways continues to monitor the situation closely, with further updates anticipated as recovery operations progress and the carriageway is gradually reopened to traffic.
