M5 to be closed for several hours after serious crash

Motorists are warned that a stretch of the M5 will be closed for 'some time'[1] following a serious crash in Somerset. The motorway is currently closed in both directions following a major collision between junction 24 and 25. National Highways reports that traffic will not return to normal until after 6pm this evening, Wednesday, February 26.

Multiple emergency services are at the scene and it is expected that the road will be closed for 'some time'. Motorists have been asked to avoid the area where possible and find alternative routes. A diversion route has been put in place.[2] Anyone who witnessed the crash, or who has dashcam footage is asked to contact police by calling 101 and quoting the reference number 5225050845. Follow our live blog here for the latest updates.[3]

Avon and Somerset Police said: "The M5 has been closed in both directions between junctions 24 (Bridgwater) and 25 (Taunton) after a serious collision. We were called at 2.43pm and emergency services are in attendance. "The road is expected to be closed for some time.

Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes and we thank them for their patience.

"If you were travelling in the area at the time and have any dashcam footage or information which could help our investigation, please call 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5225050845."

There has also been a collision between junction 21 for Weston-super-Mare and junction 20 for Clevedon on the northbound carriageway[4] which is causing very heavy traffic.

References

1. ^ M5 will be closed for 'some time' (www.somersetlive.co.uk)
2. ^ A diversion route has been put in place. (www.somersetlive.co.uk)
3. ^ Follow our live blog here for the latest updates. (www.somersetlive.co.uk)
4. ^ also been a collision between junction 21 for Weston-super-Mare and junction 20 for Clevedon on the northbound carriageway (www.somersetlive.co.uk)