M4 Standstill: Fire Leads to Lane Closures and Long Delays, With Clear-Up Expected Until Friday

Published on November 21, 2025

A vehicle fire on the M4 has caused significant disruptions to traffic on the westbound side of the motorway, leaving drivers frustrated and stuck in lengthy tailbacks. The incident occurred at junction 6 near Slough, resulting in the closure of two lanes and a complex cleanup operation. The M4 westbound entry slip remains closed, and the traffic clearance is not expected to be completed until the early hours of Friday morning.

According to National Highways, the vehicle involved in the fire was a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) carrying hay. As the fire crews worked through the night to extinguish the blaze, efforts focused on dampening down the load to prevent it from reigniting. Service providers also assisted with removing barrels from the trailer to prevent further spread of the fire and aid the extinguishing process.

For those traveling in the area, the delays have created serious issues, particularly for business travelers and tourists who depend on timely access to key destinations. The M4, one of the busiest motorways in the UK, is a major route connecting London with the West of England, making the disruption particularly concerning for travelers heading to and from London Heathrow Airport, Windsor, and other major hubs.

Cleanup Operation: Expected Delays and Impact on Travel

As fire crews continue to work on the cleanup operation, two lanes of the M4 westbound remain closed, resulting in significant delays for commuters and long-distance travelers alike. The Highways Agency issued an update, advising travelers to avoid the affected section of the motorway and to use alternative routes. The closure, expected to last well into Friday morning, has made the westbound M4 particularly difficult to navigate for anyone heading in the direction of Maidenhead or Windsor.

For many business travelers, the delay means a potential missed meeting or disrupted schedule, particularly those with flights at Heathrow or appointments in central London. Meanwhile, tourists visiting the UK during the festive season may find their sightseeing plans impacted by these delays.

Advice for Travelers: How to Navigate the M4 Disruptions

For travelers impacted by the ongoing M4 disruption, here are some tips to help mitigate the effects of the delays:

1. Monitor Traffic Updates Regularly

Stay informed about the situation by checking National Highways for real-time updates on road closures, lane restrictions, and expected clearance times. Websites like Traffic England and local news stations also offer timely reports on M4 traffic.

2. Plan Alternative Routes

If you are traveling westbound on the M4, consider using alternative routes such as the A4 or A40. These roads may be slower but can help avoid the standstill caused by the lane closures. If you are heading to Heathrow or central London, explore public transport options like trains or the Heathrow Express.

3. Allow Extra Travel Time

Traffic delays may persist well into the evening, so it’s important to plan for additional travel time. For those with time-sensitive commitments, such as flights or meetings, factor in the uncertainty and leave earlier than usual.

4. Consider Public Transport Options

For business travelers or tourists relying on public transport, check the status of train services to and from Heathrow and other London stations. While road delays can affect surface travel, trains and the London Underground may offer more reliable options for reaching your destination.

5. Stay Updated on Cleanup Progress

Regularly check for clean-up operation updates and information on the estimated reopening times for the M4 westbound. Travelers should stay informed so they can adjust their routes accordingly.

The Impact on Local Business and Tourism

The M4 traffic disruption could have a ripple effect on the local economy, particularly businesses that depend on the flow of tourists and business travelers. Many tourist attractions, such as Windsor Castle and nearby shopping centers, could see reduced foot traffic as people avoid traveling through the region due to the ongoing delays.

For businesses in Slough, Maidenhead, and other nearby towns, the delays could affect client meetings, especially for those traveling from London or the M4 corridor. Many businesses rely on timely transport for supply chains, customer meetings, and logistics, so the disruption may affect their operations.

However, the longer-term economic impact might be mitigated once the clean-up operation is completed and access is restored. As the holiday season continues, it is likely that businesses will work to accommodate travel delays and help customers navigate the affected areas.

Key Points to Remember

• M4 westbound entry slip at junction 6 remains closed due to a vehicle fire.
• Traffic delays are expected to continue until the early hours of Friday morning, with two lanes of the M4 still closed.
• The cleanup operation includes removing hazardous materials from the fire, with fire crews and service providers on site.
• Alternative routes, such as the A4 and A40, should be considered for those heading westbound on the M4.
• Business travelers and tourists are advised to check real-time updates and plan extra time for their journeys.

Final Thoughts for Travelers

The ongoing M4 delays due to the vehicle fire are a significant inconvenience, particularly for those with time-sensitive commitments. However, with a bit of planning, travelers can navigate the disruption. Whether it’s checking real-time updates from National Highways, using alternative routes, or opting for public transport, there are ways to minimize the impact on your journey. Keep informed about the status of the M4 and be prepared to adjust your plans to avoid the worst of the traffic chaos.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated