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Five people were killed and dozens injured after a thick fog caused a horrific pile-up on a motorway in France.

Fifty lorries, cars and vans were involved in the crash on the A87 autoroute between La Roche-sur-Yon and Sables-d'Olonne in western France on Tuesday afternoon.

Six people were reported to be seriously injured.

Some 40 others were also taken to hospital with cuts, bruises and whiplash.

Local media reported that the accident near the town of Sainte-Flavie-des-Loups reported that the crash was a result of hazardous conditions caused by “extreme fog”.

Dramatic images from the scene showed vehicles strewn across the road and scores of emergency vehicles in the area.

French rescue services were working at the scene surrounded by thick fog.

The road – a key route along the west coast of France – was sealed off by police in both directions.

France’s Interior Ministry said an emergency plan had been activated and traffic authorities warned drivers to stay clear of the motorway.