A dramatic vehicle fire on the M5 northbound in Somerset caused severe delays on Saturday morning, with motorists facing up to 70 minutes of congestion. The blaze erupted between junction J25 in Taunton and J24 in Bridgewater, prompting the closure of one lane and a swift response from emergency services.
Fire Engulfs Car and Spreads to Embankment
Avon Fire and Rescue Service crews attended the scene after the car became engulfed in flames. A passenger in a nearby vehicle captured footage showing the fire had spread to bushes and undergrowth on the embankment next to the hard shoulder. The video, first published by Somerset Live, depicts the driver pulling onto the hard shoulder before the car ignited.
National Highways issued a warning at approximately 9:45am, advising drivers of seven miles of congestion and estimated delays of 70 minutes on approach. A photograph from the scene shows the vehicle completely enveloped in fire, with smoke billowing into the air.
Emergency Response and Traffic Recovery
Firefighters quickly reached the scene and extinguished the blaze. Traffic began to ease after the fire was dealt with, and all lanes reopened by around 10:30am. No injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
Motorists were advised to seek alternative routes during the closure. The incident highlights the dangers of vehicle fires and the importance of prompt emergency response to minimise disruption and risk.
