Five fire engines were needed to tackle a lorry that was engulfed in flames on the M25 this morning (August 10).

The motorway was brought to a standstill at around 6.40am near junction 19 for Watford.

The fire sent thick smoke billowing into the air with people living locally reporting that they could hear explosions.

Live updates: Lorry fire causes 60 minute delays on M25 by Watford

Watford Observer: The lorry on fire before firefighters arrived. Credit: National HighwaysThe lorry on fire before firefighters arrived. Credit: National Highways

Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue says the whole HGV was on fire but confirmed nobody was injured.

The vehicle was parked near the hard shoulder of the motorway and the fire was extinguished at around 8am.

Crews remained on scene for another 45 minutes to damp down the scene, the fire service said.

Watford Observer: Firefighters dealing with the lorry fire at around 7.50am. Credit: National HighwaysFirefighters dealing with the lorry fire at around 7.50am. Credit: National Highways

There have been lane closures in place on the clockwise carriageway between junction 18 for Rickmansworth and 19 causing delays of over an hour – two lanes remain shut as of 3pm for road repairs with queues back towards junction 16 for the M40.

Traffic was also really slow anticlockwise past the scene of the fire but this has now cleared.

Watford Observer: This live traffic map taken at around 8am shows the extent of the delays the fire caused on the M25. Credit: Google MapsThis live traffic map taken at around 8am shows the extent of the delays the fire caused on the M25. Credit: Google Maps

Both the fire service and police warned motorists to avoid the area.

Have you got a story for us? You can contact us here.

Follow us on FacebookTwitter and Instagram to keep up with all the latest news.

To receive breaking news alerts or newsletters sign up here.

Check out our Watford crime and court Facebook page here.