Passengers are facing significant delays at Heathrow Airport following a morning fire involving an electric car in a tunnel, which has also caused major traffic disruptions on the M4.
Passengers departing from Heathrow Airport are currently experiencing significant delays following an incident involving an electric car that caught fire in one of the airport tunnels this morning. The fire, which occurred early in the day, led to an emergency response and subsequently the closure of the M4 southbound between junctions 4 and 4a.
The electric vehicle reportedly exploded while in the tunnel designated for access to Terminals 1, 2, and 3, prompting the immediate dispatch of two fire engines to the scene to manage the extensive flames that engulfed the car. The incident not only created a hazardous situation but has also resulted in major traffic disruptions for commuters attempting to reach the airport.
In light of these events, a spokesperson for Heathrow Airport stated, “Due to an earlier vehicle fire, road access to Terminals 2 and 3 is partially restricted. Passengers are advised to leave more time travelling to the airport and use public transport where possible.” The official urged travellers to stay updated through Heathrow’s website and social media channels to receive timely information regarding the ongoing situation.
Additionally, passengers heading to Europe’s busiest airport are being discouraged from using the affected stretch of the M4, with a recommendation to utilise public transport where feasible. Alternatives suggested include entering the airport via the M25 at junction 14 or the M4 at junction 3 to avoid the traffic chaos caused by the incident.
The unfolding situation at Heathrow Airport emphasises the challenges posed by vehicle fires, particularly in high-traffic and critical access areas. Further updates are anticipated as emergency services continue to manage the aftermath of this incident.
Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://www.rochvalleyradio.com/news/uk/passengers-travelling-to-heathrow-airport-face-delays-on-m4-after-car-catches-fire-in-tunnel/ – This URL corroborates the incident of a car catching fire in a tunnel near Heathrow Airport, causing delays for passengers. It also mentions the closure of the M4 southbound between junctions 4 and 4a.
- https://www.heathrow.com/ – Heathrow Airport’s official website would provide updates and information regarding travel advisories and road conditions, as suggested by the airport’s spokesperson.
- https://www.highwaysengland.co.uk/traffic-information/ – Highways England’s traffic information page would offer real-time updates on road conditions and closures, including those affecting access to Heathrow Airport.
- https://www.transportforlondon.gov.uk/ – Transport for London’s website provides information on public transport options, which are recommended as alternatives for reaching Heathrow Airport during the incident.
- https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london – BBC News London often covers incidents affecting major transportation hubs like Heathrow Airport, providing updates on traffic and travel disruptions.
- https://www.gov.uk/guidance/highway-code – The UK Government’s Highway Code guidance includes information on safe driving practices and emergency procedures, relevant to understanding the response to vehicle fires on highways.
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
9
Notes:
The narrative appears to be current, referencing a recent incident involving an electric car fire at Heathrow Airport. There is no indication of outdated information or recycled news.
Quotes check
Score:
8
Notes:
A quote from a Heathrow Airport spokesperson is provided, but the original source and date of the quote could not be verified online. This suggests it might be a recent or original statement.
Source reliability
Score:
8
Notes:
The narrative originates from the Express, a well-known publication in the UK. While generally reliable, it may have a sensationalist tone at times.
Plausability check
Score:
9
Notes:
The claims about an electric car fire causing delays at Heathrow Airport are plausible given the context of vehicle fires impacting traffic. However, specific details such as the exact cause of the fire or its full impact could not be verified.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): PASS
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): HIGH
Summary:
The narrative appears to be current and plausible, with a reliable source. While the quote’s originality could not be verified, the overall context suggests a recent event. The lack of detailed verification for some claims does not significantly detract from the narrative’s credibility.
