A fuel tank has exploded sending massive plumes of black smoke into the sky and blocking a road that is expected to be closed all day.
The tanker caught fire on the A21 near Lamberhurst in Kent shortly before midday on Wednesday, as local residents were urged to keep their windows and doors shut.
Footage also showed flames raging behind the driver's cabin of the vehicle stranded at the side of the road. Witnesses reported hearing multiple explosions as the fire raged.
A statement from Kent Police said: "Kent Police was called at 11.45am on 11 August 2021 to a report that an HGV tanker was on fire at a location on the A21 near Lamberhurst.
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"Officers are at the scene assisting Kent Fire and Rescue Service.
"There are no reported injuries and the road is currently closed in both directions."
A spokesperson for Kent Fire and Rescue Service said six engines were sent to the scene and crews were battling the inferno.
The fire service urged local residents to keep their windows and doors closed.
No injuries have been reported.
The fire service spokesperson said: "Kent Fire and Rescue Service is currently at the scene of a vehicle fire on the A21 near Lamberhurst.
"Six fire engines are in attendance, and crews are working to extinguish the flames. No casualties have been reported.
"Crews are advising everyone to avoid the area while the emergency services to deal with the incident, and the road is currently closed between the A262 and Scotney Castle.
"Firefighters are also asking those who live or work in the area to keep windows and doors closed as a precaution due to smoke.
"Please pass this message onto any friends or family who do not have access to the internet, thank you."
Witness Andrew Seale, who posted a video on Twitter showing a huge cloud of black smoke, wrote: "Massive explosions and plums [sic] of smoke, A21 bypass near Lamberhurst."
Another witness, Matt Geer, tweted: "Fuel tank on fire on the Lamberhurst bypass. Avoid A21 at all costs!"
Motorists were warned to expect severe delays in the area, with the bypass expected to be closed for the rest of the day.
Highways England tweeted: "This closure in both directions is likely to remain closed all day due to this vehicle fire. Diversions are being put in place."
