A large fire has broken out next to the M25, forcing a section of the motorway to close as firefighters tackle the blaze.
Emergency services are at the scene in St Albans after the fire started at an industrial estate in Ventura Park.
Pictures on social media and released by National Highways show thick dark smoke rising above the carriageways, with road closures in place.
Commuters have been warned that there are currently delays of around 60 minutes in both directions as a result of the fire.
Due to the risk of secondary explosions, along with smoke and debris affecting the carriageway, the motorway remains closed as a precaution, National Highways said.
Given the incident’s proximity to a railway line, Network Rail have confirmed they are also at the scene liaising with fire fighters.
A Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “We are currently responding to an incident in Ventura Park, Old Parkbury Lane, Colney Street, St Albans.
“If you live locally, we advise to keep doors and windows closed and please avoid the area while emergency crews carry out their work.”
Deputy Chief Fire Officer Mark Barber said firefighters are “working hard to bring the situation under control”.
He said: “Fire Control has received a significant number of calls regarding this incident, and I would like to reassure residents that firefighters are working hard to bring the situation under control.”
Firefighters have been battling a series of fires across the UK, including one in the New Forest National Park, Hampshire.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service said on Tuesday that crews had worked through the night, battling a challenging change in wind direction, and were managing to contain the fire, which started after a van caught fire on the A31 near Ringwood on Sunday.
The area hit by the blaze is protected heathland and home to a number of rare species, according to the New Forest National Park Authority.
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said on Monday night that crews were attending “multiple wildfire incidents”, including at Cwmavon Woods in Blaenavon, Wattsville in Sirhowy Valley and Abernant in Aberdare.
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