Major Motorway Shutdown as Police Respond to Welfare Concern on M5
A significant police-led incident has resulted in the complete closure of the M5 motorway in both directions, causing substantial disruption to traffic across the South West of England. The closure was implemented earlier today following what authorities have described as a welfare concern that required immediate police attention.
Full Closure Between Key Junctions
The affected stretch of the motorway runs between Junction 19, near the A369 Martcombe Road in Portishead, and Junction 18, which connects to the M49. National Highways has confirmed that the closure is in effect on both carriageways, with all traffic being held stationary as emergency services manage the situation.
According to traffic monitoring service Inrix, the incident was reported just prior to 12:15 PM, when police initiated a temporary hold on all vehicles. The closure specifically impacts the Avonmouth Bridge section of the M5, a critical transport link that serves the Bristol and North Somerset areas.
Police-Led Response Underway
Avon and Somerset Police are leading the response to the welfare concern, though specific details about the nature of the incident have not been publicly disclosed. National Highways has issued official statements advising motorists to avoid the area and seek alternative routes while the police operation continues.
The sudden shutdown has created significant traffic congestion on surrounding roads, with drivers experiencing lengthy delays during what is typically a busy period for the motorway network. Local authorities are urging commuters to plan their journeys carefully and expect extended travel times until the situation is resolved.
Ongoing Disruption and Travel Advice
As emergency services work at the scene, there is currently no estimated time for when the M5 will reopen to traffic. Motorists are being advised to:
- Check live traffic updates before commencing any journeys in the region
- Use alternative routes where possible to avoid the closure area
- Allow extra time for travel due to expected congestion on diversion routes
- Follow official guidance from National Highways and local police
The incident serves as a reminder of how quickly major transport arteries can be affected by emergency situations, with the M5 closure likely to impact commercial deliveries, public transport schedules, and thousands of daily commuters across the South West.
