M5 diversions after lorry fire erupts
The M5 is closed
Shannon Brown Reporter 12:53, 15 Oct 2025Updated 13:16, 15 Oct 2025
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Firefighters are at the scene of the blaze in Exeter(Image: National Highways)
Drivers are being diverted off the M5 while firefighters tackle a lorry fire.
The blaze ignited in the northbound carriageway between junctions 30 and 29 and the motorway has been closed as a result.
Emergency services are at the scene.
National Highways said: "The M5 in Devon is closed northbound between J30 Sandygate Interchange ( Exeter[1] A379; Exmouth[2] A376; Sidmouth[3] (A3052); Exeter Services) and J29 Sowton Interchange ( Honiton[4] A30; Exeter Airport A3015).
"This is due to a lorry fire being dealt with by Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue.
"Devon & Cornwall Police and National Highways Traffic Officers are also attending."
An eyewitness said there was "lots of smoke" coming from the scene and "all traffic had been stopped".
Devon and Cornwall Police said: "We were called to reports of a lorry fire on the northbound carriageway of the M5[5] between junctions 30 and 29, near #Exeter[6].
"The northbound carriageway has been closed at junction 30. Emergency services remain at the scene.
Further updates when we have them."
Article continues belowM5 diversion route
Road users should follow the route marked with a solid diamond symbol on local road signs:
- Exit the M5 northbound at J30
- At the junction roundabout take the second exit on to Sidmouth Road
- At the next roundabout take the second exit on to Moor Lane
- Continue north on Moor Lane to the roundabout with the A3015 (Moor Lane Roundabout)
- Take the third exit from the roundabout on to the A3015 Honiton Road
- Turn left at the next junction to re-join the M5 northbound
Updates on the fire continue here[7].