Multiple people have been hurt in an accident in thick fog involving more than 30 vehicles, including cars and lorries, which has closed the M20.
The motorway is shut between Junction 8 for Hollingbourne and Junction 9 for Ashford.
The M20 near Junction 8 for Leeds Castle. Picture: National Highways
It happened on the London-bound carriageway just before 6.45pm today (Saturday).
Police said the accident had involved 30-plus vehicles.
A force spokesman said: “Two people are reported to have sustained serious injuries.
“One of those injured has been taken to a London hospital while the other patient has been taken to a local hospital.
“Other drivers have sustained injuries not believed to be serious.
“Road closures are in place on both the London-bound and coast-bound carriageways between junction 9 to 8 and these closures are likely to remain overnight while the incident is dealt with.”
A fire service spokesman said “multiple people” were being checked by paramedics.
At 9.14pm, in a post on X, National Highways, responding to a motorist trapped in the closed part of the M20, said: “I’ve spoken with our control room, who have confirmed that the collision involves up to 20 vehicles, including cars and lorries.
“Due to the scale of the incident and the congestion that has built up, it may be some time before traffic begins to move.
“Unfortunately, we’re unable to provide an estimated reopening time.”
Traffic queuing in the fog on the M20 near Junction 8 for Leeds Castle. Picture: National Highways
One motorist said a mixture of fog and smoke from nearby Leeds Castle fireworks was reducing visibility while driving towards Maidstone.
Earlier, another said they had seen fire engines, ambulances and police cars rushing to the scene.
One member of the public reported the poor visibility on the M20 to the police after concerns for driver safety.
At 11.45pm, National Highways posted to say the motorway remained closed in both directions.
It said traffic caught within the closure was in the process of being turned around via the back of the queue – some drivers were still being turned around five hours after the crash.
A statement added: “All emergency services have attended the scene, including the Air Ambulance team. Kent Police remain in attendance.
A deserted M20 after the closure between Junction 8 and 9. Picture: National Highways
“Recovery of the vehicles involved in the collision is now underway, with National Highways Traffic Officers supporting traffic management.”
Earlier, it said thick fog had been confirmed in the area and road users were advised to “take extra care whilst travelling”.
The fire service spokesman added: “Kent Fire and Rescue was called at 6.43pm today to reports of a crash involving multiple vehicles on the M20 between junctions 9 near Ashford and 8 near Hollingbourne.
“Three fire engines attended, and crews helped make sure everyone was safely out of the vehicles.
“Multiple people were passed into the care of SECAmb paramedics.”
Traffic is being diverted via the A20.
The ambulance service has been approached for more information.
Elsewhere in Kent, thick fog was also reported in the Thanet area, particularly between Sarre and Monkton, as well as on the A299.
The M20 accident is reminiscent of Britain’s biggest pile-up, when more than 100 vehicles crashed on the Sheppey Crossing in September 2013.
Many motorists described not being able to see brake lights on the cars in front of them.
Miraculously, given the number of vehicles involved, no one was killed.