Drivers experienced disruption on the M23 motorway after a vehicle fire prompted lane closures on the southbound carriageway near Gatwick Airport. Emergency services, including the fire service and National Highways traffic officers, responded to the incident as crews worked to extinguish the blaze and clear the affected vehicles. (X (formerly Twitter))
According to traffic updates, the incident occurred on the M23 southbound between Junction 8 (Redhill/Merstham) and Junction 9 (Gatwick Airport). Two of the four lanes were temporarily closed while firefighters tackled the fire and ensured the scene was safe for motorists. The lane closures led to delays for traffic heading toward Gatwick Airport and the south coast. (X (formerly Twitter))
National Highways advised motorists to expect congestion and allow extra travel time while emergency services remained at the scene. Drivers were also encouraged to check live traffic updates before setting out, particularly if travelling to or from Gatwick Airport. (X (formerly Twitter))
As of the latest reports, there have been no immediate reports of serious injuries linked to the vehicle fire. Firefighters successfully brought the blaze under control before recovery teams began removing the affected vehicle and reopening lanes. (X (formerly Twitter))
The incident is separate from an earlier fatal collision on the M23 near Crawley that resulted in a prolonged motorway closure and a police investigation. Authorities have not indicated that the two events are connected. (Sussex Police)
Motorists planning to use the M23 are advised to continue monitoring official traffic updates, as residual delays may persist even after all lanes have reopened.