M5 Motorway Shut Down After Lorry Fire Sparks Rush Hour Chaos
Drivers in Gloucestershire are facing extensive delays this morning after a lorry caught fire on the M5 southbound, prompting a full closure of the motorway. Emergency services are currently at the scene, with fire crews working to damp down the blaze and manage the aftermath.
Key Events and Traffic Impact
The incident occurred between junctions 13 and 14 on the M5 southbound, near Stroud and Thornbury. National Highways has confirmed that the motorway is closed in both directions as a safety precaution, with traffic held since the early hours of the morning. According to a statement from National Highways, fire crews are damping down the scene, but recovery operations are not expected to begin until after 6:00 AM.
While the load on the lorry is believed to be non-hazardous, involving pallets on a double-deck trailer, the closure is necessary to safely remove the vehicle and debris. This has resulted in long queues and significant disruption for commuters during the peak rush hour period.
Diversions and Alternative Routes
To mitigate the traffic chaos, authorities have implemented a diversion route. Motorists are advised to use the A38 from Whitminster to Falfield, rejoining the M5 at junction 14. Traffic monitoring site Inrix reports that delays are extensive, with the closure affecting travel from junction 13 (A419) to junction 14 (B4509).
National Highways is liaising closely with fire services to reopen lanes as soon as it is safe, but drivers should expect ongoing delays throughout the morning. The incident underscores the vulnerability of major transport routes to unexpected emergencies and the importance of swift emergency response.
Safety and Recovery Efforts
Emergency crews, including fire and police units, are actively managing the scene to ensure public safety. A spokesperson for National Highways emphasized that while the load is not hazardous, the full closure will remain in place until recovery can be safely completed. This proactive measure aims to prevent further incidents and allow for thorough cleanup operations.
As the situation develops, commuters are urged to check for updates from official sources and plan alternative travel routes. The disruption serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by infrastructure during peak travel times and the critical role of emergency services in maintaining road safety.
