BLESSY, Pas-de-Calais, France — A major traffic disruption was reported Thursday, August 20, 2026, following a truck accident on the A26 motorway near Blessy, affecting traffic travelling between Saint-Omer and Lillers. According to reports, a heavy goods vehicle crashed into the central safety barrier while travelling beneath a bridge. The incident resulted in the A26 being completely closed in both directions in the affected area, with significant congestion developing around the crash site.
Reports indicate that approximately 1,000 litres of diesel spilled onto the roadway, adding to the difficulties faced by emergency and road crews working to secure the scene. At least three kilometres of traffic queues were reported on both sides of the incident.
Motorists travelling from Reims toward Calais were being directed to exit at Lillers, while those travelling in the opposite direction were advised to leave the motorway at Saint-Omer. Recovery operations were underway to remove the damaged truck and make the roadway safe for reopening.
Drivers in the area are being urged to avoid the A26 near Blessy and Lillers, allow additional time for their journeys and follow diversion signs. At the time of the latest report, information concerning injuries had not been established in the available coverage. The immediate priority remained securing the motorway, dealing with the diesel spill and clearing the damaged vehicle.
The incident has caused substantial disruption for motorists using the A26, an important route connecting the Calais and Reims areas. This is a developing traffic incident, and conditions may change as recovery operations continue.