M20 Traffic Chaos: Crash Between Lorries and Cars Shuts Key Stretch in Kent
Motorists in Kent woke up to gridlock this morning after a serious collision forced the closure of part of the M20.
Two lorries and two cars were involved in the crash, which happened just before 3am on the westbound carriageway between Junction 9 (Ashford) and Junction 8 (Maidstone). Despite the early hour, the disruption quickly spilled into the morning rush.
By sunrise, every westbound lane towards London was shut. Queues stretched back towards Junction 10, with drivers facing diversions and long tailbacks.
National Highways confirmed: “The M20 in Kent is closed westbound between J9 (Ashford) and J8 (Maidstone) due to a multi-vehicle collision.
Emergency services are on scene. National Highways Traffic Officers are also on scene, providing assistance with traffic management.
There is a large amount of debris across the carriageway and damage to the central reservation barrier. National Highways contractors will be attending to assist with clear-up works and repairs.”
The #M20 in #Kent remains closed westbound between J9 (#Ashford) and J8 (#Maidstone) due to a collision.
Traffic caught within the closure is now being released.
Thanks for your patience if you’ve been held up. pic.twitter.com/C7WP15aKTu
— National Highways: South-East (@HighwaysSEAST) August 29, 2025
Trapped motorists were gradually released from within the closure zone around 5.30am, though progress was slow.
Traffic analyst Inrix reported that a bridge near the crash site is also under inspection for possible damage. That adds another layer of uncertainty for commuters already battling heavy rain.
The Met Office issued a yellow weather warning covering Kent, Essex, Sussex, Surrey, London, and South Wales. Forecasters warned of torrential downpours, with some coastal spots at risk of 70mm of rain in just a few hours.
It’s not just the motorways causing headaches. In Somerset, local drivers are also facing delays, with Stocklinch Road set to close for Wessex Water works, adding further strain on regional routes.
Meanwhile, passengers at London Liverpool Street are facing major disruption after a broken rail brought services to a halt. Trains through the capital’s busiest station could be delayed by up to an hour, with cancellations expected until at least 11am, according to National Rail.
Trains through the capital’s busiest station could be delayed by up to an hour, with cancellations expected until at least 11am, according to National Rail.
A crash, a bridge inspection, and a downpour, the perfect storm for travel disruption across the South East. Drivers and rail users alike are being warned to allow extra time, be patient, and expect the unexpected.
