Double-Decker Bus Engulfed in Flames on A13, Causing Major Travel Disruption

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A double-decker bus caught fire on the A13 near Purfleet, Essex, on Thursday morning, sending thick plumes of black smoke into the sky and triggering lengthy delays for motorists. The incident led to a partial closure of the eastbound carriageway, with two of the three lanes shut near the junction with the A1306 New Road.

The London Fire Brigade (LFB) confirmed it was called at 9:03 am following reports that a double-decker bus was alight near Wennington. Emergency services quickly arrived at the scene, where they worked to bring the blaze under control. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, and investigations are expected to follow.

Eyewitness Colin Neale Jr, 32, who was piloting a light aircraft over the Thurrock area, described seeing the smoke from above. “I could see the vehicle in flames. As I got closer, it became clear it was a double-decker London bus. It’s been completely destroyed,” he told The Sun. Neale also reported seeing multiple fire engines and police vehicles on site.

The fire, which significantly damaged the vehicle, caused extensive traffic disruption. Congestion built up for nearly three miles, with queues stretching back towards London. Authorities advised drivers to avoid the area or seek alternative routes while recovery efforts continued.

At present, there have been no reports of injuries, and it remains unclear how many passengers were aboard at the time of the incident. The LFB has not yet released further details regarding the extent of the damage or the estimated time for full road reopening.

The A13 is a key transport route linking London to South Essex, and closures along this stretch frequently cause widespread delays during peak travel hours. Emergency services are expected to remain on-site for several hours as investigations and clean-up operations continue.