The M27 could remain closed overnight after a serious van fire on the motorway.
Thousands of motorists are caught in the severe tailbacks, which stretch for five miles and are causing at least an hour delay for drivers.
Fire crews from St Mary's, Eastleigh and Romsey were called to the blaze on the hard shoulder of the M27 between junctions four and five this afternoon.
If you're heading towards #Southampton or #M3 this afternoon pls be aware the #M27 westbound is closed between J5 and J4. There is approx 4 miles of congestion back to J8 #HedgeEnd, for details of the diversion click here: https://t.co/dWuMux6yDF. Severe disruption in the area.
— Highways England (@HighwaysSEAST) September 10, 2019
Hampshire Police say the motorway could be shut overnight.
Around 150 litres of hydraulic oil and diesel have been spilt across the carriageway as a result of the fire.
Drivers planning journeys in the area are advised to check conditions before setting out and leave plenty of extra time, especially if heading for St Marys.
A clean-up is ongoing however the road will need re-surfacing for safety reasons, said a spokesperson for Highways England.
#M27
— Hampshire Police (@HantsPolice) September 10, 2019
This is likely to remain closed overnight at Junction 5 Westbound following an incident. Please avoid the area if you can. We’ll update you when we can. pic.twitter.com/gvSuTsfNcg
The closure will affect thousands of football fans travelling to St Mary's for tonight's England v Kosovo Euro qualifier.
Crews were called at 11.49am today to the fire.
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