### M48 Severn Bridge Closed in Both Directions Due to Severe Winds, Diversions in Place
Motorists travelling between England and South Wales faced significant disruption this morning following the complete closure of the M48 Severn Bridge, prompted by powerful and potentially hazardous wind gusts. The closure is affecting traffic in both directions and has led to considerable diversions and delays, particularly around key junctions.
National Highways announced the closure early on Tuesday, with authorities citing “unprecedented wind speeds” as the primary reason for sealing off the historic crossing. The bridge, a crucial link between Chepstow and Aust, was closed between Junction 1 (Aust) and Junction 2 (A466 Wye Valley Link Road, Chepstow), halting all eastbound and westbound journeys.
With the M48 bridge rendered impassable, all vehicles are being redirected across the newer M4 Prince of Wales Bridge, which is designed to withstand stronger winds and heavier traffic. As a result, longer travel times, congestion, and significant tailbacks have been observed along both approaches to the alternative crossing, exacerbating the frustration of commuters and freight operators alike.
Traffic monitoring services such as Inrix have continually updated their feeds with information about the closure. Their latest report stated, “M48 Severn Bridge in both directions closed due to strong winds between J2 A466 Wye Valley Link Road (Chepstow) and J1 A403 (Aust).” This closure mirrors previous events when the Severn Estuary’s exposed position has forced authorities to enact similar safety measures, although today’s winds are said to be among the strongest recorded at this location in recent years.
Local residents and regular users of the M48 are no strangers to closures due to adverse weather, but the increasing frequency and severity of such incidents have raised questions about the impact of climate change and the adequacy of current infrastructure. National Highways and weather experts continue to monitor the situation closely, with the bridge to remain closed until wind speeds fall to a safe level. No estimated reopening time has been provided as yet.
The Prince of Wales Bridge, which remains open, has itself been the subject of scrutiny whenever high winds gust across the estuary. While it is generally able to resist weather conditions that close the M48, the volume of traffic transferred onto it following today’s closure is expected to test its capacity over coming hours. Drivers are being urged to check travel updates before setting out, to allow extra time for their journeys, and to exercise particular caution due to changeable weather.
Authorities have underscored the importance of not attempting unauthorised crossings or ignoring closure signs, as high-sided vehicles, motorcycles, and lighter cars can be especially vulnerable to sudden gusts on exposed bridges. Emergency services stand ready in case of incidents, but the closure is described as a precautionary step to avoid avoidable accidents or structural damage.
As weather events like today’s become more common, transport officials face questions on whether further infrastructure improvements or new safety protocols will be needed to maintain reliable transit across the Severn estuary. For now, the focus remains on public safety and clear communication as thousands alter their Tuesday routines.
Motorists and commercial drivers are advised to stay tuned to local radio, official social media channels, and the National Highways website for the latest updates on when the M48 Severn Bridge may reopen. In the meantime, patience and vigilance remain the order of the day for anyone journeying between South Wales and the South West of England.