M5 Closure Near Bristol Airport Causes Severe Gridlock After Welfare Incident
Emergency teams shut down a vital stretch of the M5 motorway near Bristol today, the closure began around 12:15 pm following a welfare incident. Drivers currently face standstill traffic in both directions between junctions 18 and 19, the blockage sits dangerously close to a major regional airport.
Recent Weather Events Compound Regional Travel Chaos
This latest shutdown adds to a notoriously difficult week for travelers in the South West, the region has struggled with severe weather and accidents since Monday. Crews were forced to restrict access earlier this week due to heavy flooding from Storm Chandra, those waters damaged road surfaces and required emergency repairs. Another collision occurred recently between junction 28 and 29, this series of unrelated events has tested the resilience of the local transport network. The frequency of these interruptions highlights the fragility of this key route, thousands of vehicles rely on this corridor daily for commerce and commuting.
Authorities Enforce Total Closure for Safety Operation
Officers from Avon and Somerset Police arrived on the scene just after noon on January 30, they immediately stopped all traffic flow to manage the situation safely. The closure completely blocks the corridor between the M49 interchange and Portishead, National Highways officials confirmed queues now stretch back for several miles. Current data indicates severe delays of up to 90 minutes for northbound drivers, those traveling southbound face wait times exceeding one hour.
Specialized Units Respond to Welfare Concern
Authorities formally classified the event as a welfare incident, this terminology typically indicates a serious concern for personal safety rather than a vehicle collision. Police prioritized securing the area to allow emergency workers space to operate, they have requested patience from the public while they resolve the sensitive matter. Emergency services remain on site to provide necessary support, safety protocols dictate that the road must remain clear of moving vehicles during such operations.
Airport Passengers Warned of Missed Flight Risks
The location of the blockade poses immediate risks for anyone heading to Bristol Airport, the terminal sits less than ten miles from the ongoing police operation. Officials urge all passengers to leave extra time for their journeys, alternative routes through local villages are rapidly filling with diverted traffic. Local delivery schedules will likely suffer major disruptions throughout the afternoon, the gridlock affects a wide radius beyond the motorway itself.
Police have not offered a specific timeline for reopening the road, motorists should seek diversion routes immediately to avoid becoming trapped in the congestion.
