Major Motorway Closure Triggers Widespread Travel Disruption Across Bristol Region
A significant police-led incident has resulted in the complete shutdown of the M5 motorway, creating severe travel chaos that is now rippling across the Bristol area. The closure between junctions 18 and 19 has prompted urgent warnings from transport authorities and Bristol Airport, with passengers and motorists facing extensive delays.
Airport Issues Direct Advice to Travellers Amid Gridlock
Officials at Bristol Airport have taken the proactive step of advising all passengers with departing flights to seek alternative routes and allow substantial extra time for their journeys. The airport's warning comes as the motorway closure creates unpredictable traffic conditions that could impact access to the terminal.
Despite the significant road disruption, airport operations appear to be continuing with minimal interruption. At the time of reporting, only one flight showed a delay status, suggesting that while road access is problematic, flight schedules remain largely unaffected.
Motorists Describe Hours-Long Standstill Conditions
The closure has created dramatic scenes on the roads, with vehicles backed up for several miles and reports emerging of drivers being stuck in stationary queues for multiple hours. Social media posts from affected motorists paint a picture of widespread frustration and disruption.
"Just got stuck heading to Portishead," one traveller reported on Facebook. "Motorway closed at Avonmouth bridge in both directions. Check traffic before going that way. Portway also busy." Another driver added: "Well been stuck in traffic for good few hours on M5 by Bristol."
Knock-On Effects Spread Across Bristol's Road Network
The disruption has extended far beyond the immediate closure area, with Bristol city centre experiencing high levels of congestion and significant delays as traffic diverts around the blocked motorway sections. The transport information service WEST, representing the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority and North Somerset Council, confirmed the widespread impact.
Additional delays have been reported on key routes including the M32 and Newfoundland Way Southbound into Bristol city centre. Traffic monitoring service Inrix indicated travel times of approximately 35 minutes through affected areas, though actual delays may be substantially longer given the evolving situation.
Police Confirm Welfare Incident Behind Closure
Avon and Somerset Police have confirmed that a welfare incident necessitated the complete closure of the M5 between junction 18 (M49) and junction 19 (Portishead). In an official statement, the force expressed gratitude for public patience while emergency services respond to the situation.
National Highways has implemented a local diversion around the closure area and is working to manage the substantial traffic backlog. The agency reported that southbound traffic is being gradually released from the rear of queues, with preparations underway to do the same for northbound vehicles.
Transport authorities are strongly advising all motorists to:
- Allow substantial extra time for any journeys in the affected region
- Consider alternative routes where possible
- Monitor traffic updates before travelling
- Potentially delay non-essential journeys until the situation resolves
The incident serves as a stark reminder of how a single motorway closure can create cascading effects across an entire regional transport network, affecting airport passengers, commuters, and freight movements alike.
