M20 closed after two lorries and cars crash in Kent

Driving conditions will be affected by heavy rain today across London and the south (Picture: National Highways)

Drivers in Kent should brace for delays this morning after a multi-vehicle crash on the M20 between Maidstone and Ashford.

A stretch of the motorway remains closed westbound between J9 Ashford and J8 Maidstone after two cars and two lorries crashed on the carriageway towards London.

The collision happened shortly before 3am, but all westbound lanes remain closed to traffic.

National Highways said: ‘The M20 in Kent is closed westbound between J9 (Ashford) and J8 (Maidstone) due to a multi-vehicle collision.

A long section of the London-bound section of the M20 is closed between Ashford and Kent (Picture: Google)

‘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.’

Drivers trapped within the closure were being released at about 5.30am, National Highways said.

Traffic analyst Inrix said a nearby bridge is also being inspected for damage.

Travel on roads in the south could be disrupted until midday due to heavy rain.

Torrential showers are expected across Essex, Kent, Sussex, Surrey, London and south Wales after Met Office issued a yellow weather warning for rain.

Some areas near the coasts could see up to 70mm of rain within a few hours, the forecaster warned.

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