Traffic chaos after lorry fire closes M4 in Berkshire

The fire has closed the motorway between J12 (Reading) and J13 (Newbury)

Image of the M4 lorry fire
Author: Vicky HainesPublished 15th Jul 2025
Last updated 15th Jul 2025

There is major disruption after a significant lorry fire has closed a stretch of the M4, in Berkshire.

The M4 is closed westbound between J12 (Reading) and J13 (Newbury) due to a lorry fire.

The lorry fire is significant and hard to extinguish due to the fact it was carrying batteries.

Multiple fire engines are in attendance attempting to bring the fire under control, and have been for multiple hours.

Due to the amount of smoke drifting across the eastbound carriageway, traffic is currently stopped.

National Highways traffic officers are on scene assisting with traffic management.

Drivers have been advised to find alternative routes.

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