Lanarkshire drivers urged 'avoid the area' as part of M8 closed after lorry overturns in crash

Motorists have been warned of closures after a lorry overturned on the M8 eastbound this evening.

Around 6.06pm emergency services raced to the scene on the M8 near Junction 5 between Shotts and Harthill following a collision.

Now, police have been forced to close the road to allow removal of an overturned lorry.

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Drivers are asked to avoid the area until the road has re-opened.

Traffic Scotland's most recent update reads: "#M8 Junction 5.

"Closed Eastbound at Junction 5 due to a collision. Emergency services are at scene.

"Recovery is underway tonight".

A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: "The eastbound carriageway of the M8 near junction 5 Shotts/Harthill is closed to allow removal of an overturned HGV.

"Motorists are asked to avoid the area until the road has been re-opened."

The amount of vehicles and individuals involved is currently unknown.

Police Scotland has been approached for comment - we will bring you more when we have it.

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