Chaos for Heathrow Travelers After Electric Car Explosion in Tunnel on M4
Holidaymakers heading to Heathrow Airport faced significant disruption this morning after an electric car exploded in a tunnel on the M4, causing the motorway to be shut down.
The electric vehicle caught fire inside the M4 tunnel in the early hours, prompting a swift response from emergency services. Two fire engines were dispatched to tackle the blaze, which fully engulfed the car. The motorway was closed between Junction 4 and Junction 4A, causing widespread delays for commuters.
Restricted Access to Heathrow Terminals 2 and 3
The explosion also affected access to Heathrow’s Terminals 2 and 3, with road access to these terminals restricted. A spokesperson for the airport confirmed the incident, urging passengers to use public transport or alternative routes via the M25 J14 or M4 J3 to avoid the disruption.
Quick Response from Emergency Services
London Fire Brigade crews were called to the scene shortly before 3:00 AM. Firefighters were able to control the blaze by 3:45 AM, but the car was completely destroyed. The fire had no reported injuries, and London Ambulance Service attended the scene as a precaution. The fire brigade left the site by 4:30 AM.
Road Reopened, But Delays Continue
Following the successful containment of the fire, National Highways announced that the M4 road closure had been lifted. “An earlier vehicle fire affecting road access to Terminals 2 and 3 has now been resolved,” a Heathrow spokesperson said. However, they noted that congestion around the airport remained, and apologized for the inconvenience caused.
Travel Advice for Heathrow Passengers
Travelers heading to Heathrow this morning were advised to allow extra time for their journeys. The National Highways organization also warned of potential disruptions, urging motorists to consider alternative routes.
While the M4 motorway has since reopened, travelers to Heathrow are still experiencing some delays. Emergency services acted quickly to control the fire, but the road closure caused significant disruptions for those attempting to reach the airport. Passengers are advised to use public transport or alternative routes to minimize further delays.
