The M1 has been partially closed following a major crash which has caused huge traffic jams.
The busy motorway was closed at four junctions – between junction 4 near Elstree and junction 1 near Wembley.
According to the Inrix traffic monitoring system, the accident happened between junction 2 A1 Watford Way (Barnet By-Pass) Fiveways Corner and junction 1 A406 North Circular (Staples Corner).
Metropolitan Police officers rushed to the scene, but the severity of the accident is not yet known.
Motorists are being diverted to avoid the scene of the accident.
Traffic returns to normal
Maps show that traffic in the area has returned to normal, following this afternoon’s accident.
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M1 reopens
The M1 Greater London has reopened southbound between J4 Elstree and J1 Wembley.
Delays are now easing in the region.
National road traffic officers are also present
National road traffic officers are also present to assist with traffic management.
Travelers are advised to allow extra travel time.
Metropolitan Police remain on site
Metropolitan Police remain at the scene.
Traffic is blocked just before the junction with the North Circular Road (A406).
Deviation details
Road users are advised to follow the Hollow Circle diversion symbol on road signs.
Here is the recommended diversion route:
Exit at J4 and join the A41 Edgeware Way. At the first roundabout, take the first exit to stay on the A41 Edgeway Way/Watford Bypass. At the Apex Corner roundabout, take the second exit to stay on the A1 Watford Way. At the Mill Hill Circus roundabout, take the second exit to stay on the A1 Watford Way. At the Fiveways Corner interchange, take the second exit to join the A41 Watford Way heading south towards central London. Continue on the A41 heading south through the Colindeep and Hendon Central interchanges. At the Brent Cross interchange, leave the A41 at the third exit to join the A406 North Circular heading west. Take the next exit off the A406 to access the Staples Corner interchange.
Serious delays
The AA warns there are serious delays on the M1 southbound between J5 and J4.
The average speed is only five miles per hour.
The M1 is closed southbound between J4 near Elstree and J1 near Wembley
The M1 in Greater London is closed southbound between J4 near Elstree and J1 near Wembley following a crash.
Traffic stuck in the closure is being released via the rear bypass at J2.
The collision occurred between J2 and J1, cars can exit the M1 at J2 however, heavy goods vehicles (HGV) must exit the M1 at J4.
National road authorities provide update on M1 crash
National Highways East wrote on X: “The #M1 in #GreaterLondon is closed southbound between J4 #Elstree and J1 #Wembley due to a collision. @metpoliceuk are on scene.”
“More information will follow shortly. Thank you for your patience.”
