A50 Westbound Closed Due to Lorry Fire: Severe Delays Expected

Traffic chaos has gripped the A50 westbound, near Stoke-on-Trent, following a lorry fire that erupted on the carriageway. The incident, which occurred just past the Blythe Bridge roundabout, has resulted in the closure of the westbound carriageway and severe delays for motorists.

The fire was reported at 10.34am today, according to traffic monitoring system Inrix. The incident has caused major disruptions, with traffic congested for miles on surrounding routes, including the opposite side of the A50.

Impact on Traffic Flow

Inrix reported that the A50 westbound remains closed, with severe delays extending from the A521 Blythe Bridge roundabout to the Grindley Lane Creda roundabout. The congestion also stretches back to the Meir Tunnel due to onlookers. The surrounding routes in and around Blythe Bridge are also experiencing heavy congestion as drivers seek alternative routes.

Emergency Services on Scene

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, along with Staffordshire Police, are currently at the scene. Firefighters are working to dampen down hotspots and ensure the area is safe. A recovery vehicle has been dispatched, and no injuries have been reported. Crews are expected to begin scaling back from the incident shortly.

Police Advise Alternative Routes

Staffordshire Police are advising motorists to find alternative routes of travel. “We are currently at the scene of a lorry fire on the A50 and are advising motorists to find alternative routes of travel,” a police spokesperson said.

A50 Remains Closed

Despite the emergency services working diligently, the A50 westbound remains closed between the Blythe Bridge and Creda roundabouts. Motorists are advised to check traffic updates and plan their journeys accordingly.

Navigating Through the Chaos

With the A50 westbound closed, drivers looking to reach Stoke-on-Trent should consider alternative routes such as the A34, A500, or the M6. Drivers are urged to be patient and allow extra time for their journey as traffic congestion is expected to persist for some time.

Stay Updated

This is a developing situation, and we will continue to update this article as more information becomes available. For the latest traffic updates, check traffic monitoring systems like Inrix, or follow the news from local media outlets.

It is crucial to exercise caution and vigilance on the roads during this time. Stay informed, plan your journey accordingly, and prioritize safety.