### M4 Delays as Broken-Down Caravan Causes Major Disruption Ahead of Bank Holiday Rush
Motorists travelling along the M4 in south Wales faced significant delays on Friday after a caravan broke down on one of the motorway’s busiest sections, just as many Britons were preparing for the bank holiday getaway. The incident, which occurred between junctions 25 (Caerleon) and 24 (Coldra) on the eastbound carriageway, highlighted the vulnerability of major transport routes during peak travel periods, particularly ahead of long weekends when traffic volumes are expected to surge.
According to official reports from Traffic Wales, the breakdown forced the closure of lane one, triggering congestion and slow-moving queues as traffic officers attended the scene. The disruption occurred during the early afternoon, a time when holidaymakers and commuters alike would have hoped for a smooth passage. Images from motorway cameras, shared by Traffic Wales, showed the stranded caravan and the backlog of vehicles being diverted into the remaining open lanes.
Recovery crews acted swiftly, and it was confirmed shortly after 3pm that the incident had been cleared and all eastbound lanes were reopened to traffic. However, residual delays continued for some time as the built-up queues slowly cleared. Motorists were urged to remain patient and exercise caution, especially as a greater volume of vehicles was expected later in the day and throughout the weekend.
This incident came at a particularly inopportune moment. The RAC has previously warned that the late May bank holiday would see exceptionally high traffic, predicting more than 17 million leisure journeys would be made on UK roads between Friday and Monday. Such a figure exceeds expectations by around a million trips, underscoring just how valued the long weekend is for families and travellers keen to take a break before the summer rush fully begins.
For travellers in Wales and beyond, the M4 forms a vital artery, connecting key cities and regions and acting as a gateway for those venturing into the south west of England or up toward major cities further east. Disruptions like Friday’s breakdown can therefore have rippling effects, with local routes and rural lanes sometimes experiencing overspill as drivers seek alternative paths.
The timing of this breakdown serves as a reminder to all motorists to ensure their vehicles—including caravans—are fully prepared before embarking on long journeys. The AA and other motoring groups frequently advise pre-trip checks, from tyre pressure and lights to the condition of towbars and caravan brakes, all critical to avoid similar incidents under heavy traffic conditions.
Whilst the swift resolution meant further chaos was averted, transport authorities have stressed the importance of vigilance throughout the rest of the bank holiday period. “It only takes a single vehicle breakdown to cause significant disruption, especially on already busy routes,” a spokesperson from Traffic Wales commented. “We urge all drivers to plan ahead, check live updates, and allow extra time for journeys if travelling during peak hours.”
In a wider context, the bank holiday often tests the resilience of the UK’s ageing road infrastructure, as millions of additional journeys are compressed into a handful of days. Authorities have increased their communication around anticipated pinch points, and additional traffic patrols will be on hand to assist with breakdowns or incidents.
As the weekend unfolds, Transport Wales and other agencies will continue to monitor motorway conditions, providing real-time updates via social media and traffic information services. For now, travellers are advised to check traffic conditions before setting off and maintain patience if faced with further unexpected delays.
While Friday’s breakdown brought temporary headaches for hundreds of motorists, it also highlighted the importance of preparedness and the collective patience needed during Britain’s cherished bank holiday escapes.