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A serious collision between a van and a lorry on the M25 near Godstone caused extensive traffic congestion during a record-breaking heatwave, leaving many motorists stranded for hours. The incident occurred between junctions six and seven, prompting the South East Coast Ambulance Service (Secamb) to attend to several individuals suffering from heat-related conditions. With one man airlifted to hospital, emergency crews prioritized the most critical cases amidst the challenging situation of immobilized vehicles.
Secamb reported that the traffic congestion was both severe and prolonged, with some drivers remaining stationary for several hours amid a red heat warning signifying the highest June temperatures in decades. This distressing circumstance led to multiple calls from people experiencing heat illnesses, including passengers on coaches caught in the gridlock. Social media became a platform for those affected to seek urgent assistance, with Folkestone and Hythe MP Tony Vaughan publicly urging police and highways teams to act quickly to provide water and evacuate those in need.
In his plea, Vaughan highlighted the dire conditions faced by his constituents, one of whom had been trapped near Oxted for eight hours in 40-degree heat with children and dwindling water supplies. He also noted that police appeared reluctant to distribute water, despite the emergency. Other posts shared stories of elderly individuals, infants, and animals stuck on the motorway without information or support. Susan Taylor recounted how she and her daughter endured the ordeal from mid-morning, witnessing a woman collapse from heatstroke; she thanked emergency personnel and fellow drivers who offered water and ice during the wait.
Surrey Police confirmed that the crash involved a white Mercedes Vito van driven by a man in his 30s and a white lorry. The collision left a significant oil spill damaging the road, which must be assessed by National Highways before reopening. Drivers were warned of ongoing delays and a closure at junction five. While the exit slip road at junction six has now reopened, the main carriageway remains closed as recovery and safety inspections continue. Secamb stated that the injured man sustained a leg wound and received hospital treatment following their arrival at the scene around 10:00 BST
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