Major motorway shut in both directions after huge 30-vehicle crash 'caused by heavy fog and firework smoke'
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Two people have been seriously injured and a motorway has been closed after a 30-vehicle crash in thick fog.
Cars and lorries crashed around 6.40pm on the M20 in Kent between junction eight for Hollingbourne and junction nine for Ashford.
The crash, which took place on the London-bound carriageway, saw one of the injured taken to a London hospital and another treated locally.
Other drivers were injured but not seriously, with 11 people in total treated for their injuries.
Police, paramedics and firefighters were on the motorway after the collision in the thick fog and what was believed to be smoke from a nearby fireworks display.
Nearby Leeds Castle had a firework display scheduled for 5.30pm on Saturday evening.
Some 30 cars and lorries crashed on the M20 near Leeds Castle on Saturday night
Pictures showed thick fog, while the crash took place shortly after a nearby fireworks display
A Kent Police spokesman said earlier: 'Officers are currently attending a collision on the M20 involving more than 30 vehicles.
'The incident was reported to have happened at around 6.41pm on Saturday 7 November 2026 on the London-bound carriageway of the M20 between junction 9 and 8.
'Officers are currently in attendance alongside other emergency services.
'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.
'Motorists not involved in the incident should avoid the area and should seek alternative routes.
'Anyone with information about the incident or who has dash cam footage can contact Kent Police via our live chat function quoting reference 07-1245.'
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