“The tunnel was closed following a power failure overnight and apologised for the inconvenience,” stated Medway Council, highlighting the disruption caused by the unexpected closure.

The Medway Tunnel, a crucial route that typically alleviates traffic through urban links, was shut in both directions, affecting the stretch between Anthonys Way at Medway City Estate and Maritime Way at Chatham Docks.

As a result of the closure, heavy congestion was reported on surrounding approaches, prompting authorities to urge drivers to seek alternative routes and allow extra travel time.

Traffic conditions worsened significantly, with reports indicating that congestion backed up to Higham and Chattenden around the Wainscott Bypass. Frindsbury Road into Strood, Pier Road through Gillingham, and Dock Road into Chatham also experienced delays.

Rochester Bridge, which serves as an alternative route, was carrying heavier traffic than usual as drivers sought to bypass the closed tunnel.

The situation was further complicated by a nearby building fire on Strood High Street, which compounded delays for both drivers and freight movements in the area.

Emergency crews were on the scene of the café fire for approximately four hours, deploying seven fire engines to manage the incident.

Drivers are advised to assume that alternative routes will remain slower until the tunnel is reopened, as the traffic situation continues to evolve.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the timeline for the tunnel’s reopening, but the impact on local traffic is expected to persist in the interim.

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