Major M4 Closure After Hay-Bale Lorry Fire Sends Travel Chaos Across Berkshire
A major disruption on the M4 has left motorists facing lengthy delays after a lorry carrying hay caught fire, triggering a series of incidents that disrupted rush-hour travel near Slough, Berkshire. As smoke billowed from the vehicle, emergency services sealed the motorway in both directions, with congestion spilling onto surrounding routes and creating a ripple effect for drivers heading home for the evening.
What Happened and When
Officials confirmed that the fire originated in a lorry transporting hay bales on the M4, close to the Slough interchange. The blaze quickly produced thick smoke and a risk of fuel spillage, prompting an immediate response from fire crews. While crews worked to extinguish the flames, police advised motorists to use alternate routes and avoid the area if possible. The incident occurred during a peak travel period, compounding frustration for drivers already contending with winter conditions.
Weather and Road Conditions
Snow flurries and icy patches have added another layer of challenge for road users in Berkshire. Snow remnants on the M4 and surrounding roads have reduced grip, increasing the likelihood of minor accidents as drivers attempted to divert around the closure. The combination of smoke, smoke haze, and slick roads created a tense driving environment, with authorities urging patience and careful driving as lanes began to reopen in stages later in the day.
Impact on Drivers and Local Traffic
Travel desks reported extensive delays for both commuters and freight traffic. Many drivers faced detours via the M40, A4, and local roads, which were slower and more congested due to the volume of vehicles diverting from the M4. Freight movements, including deliveries essential to local businesses and consumer supply chains, were disrupted, prompting some operators to reroute even longer distances to reach destinations on time.
Resumption of Traffic and Safety Guidance
With fire crews bringing the blaze under control, authorities gradually reopened sections of the M4 as it cooled and smoke cleared. Drivers were advised to seek real-time updates from official traffic sources and to factor in additional travel time. Police and highway officials emphasized a return to safe speeds and adherence to temporary traffic management arrangements while the scene was assessed for any structural damage and to ensure all hazards were cleared.
What Drivers Should Do Right Now
If you’re planning to travel through Berkshire today, consider delaying non-essential journeys or choosing alternative routes. For those already on the move, follow the latest police and agency advisories, keep windows clear of mist, maintain a safe following distance, and stay tuned to live traffic information. Businesses relying on freight from the affected corridor should contact drivers to adjust schedules and communicate delays to customers to mitigate disruption.
Looking Ahead
As authorities clear the scene and begin full assessments, the priority remains the safety of motorists and emergency responders. Investigations will determine the exact cause of the hay lorry fire and whether any load spillage or road surface damage contributed to the incident. In the meantime, travel disruption is expected to ease gradually, but drivers should remain cautious as winter weather and high traffic volumes continue to pose ongoing challenges.
