**Major Disruption on M4 After Multi-Vehicle Collision Causes Traffic Standstill in Cardiff**
Motorists in Cardiff faced severe disruption on Friday morning after a crash on the M4 motorway, resulting in gridlocked traffic and long delays for commuters. The incident occurred eastbound at Junction 32 Coryton, causing significant tailbacks stretching all the way to Capel Llanilltern and bringing vehicles to a complete standstill.
According to an update issued by Traffic Wales, the collision has led to Lane 2 on the eastbound carriageway being blocked. Emergency services, including traffic officers and first responders, were quickly dispatched to the scene in an effort to manage the situation and provide necessary assistance. At the time of the report, traffic officers had advised drivers to avoid the area if possible and to seek alternative routes to minimise disruption.
The traffic monitoring service Inrix also provided a statement, confirming that “one lane is blocked and slow traffic [has been reported] due to accident on M4 Eastbound at J32 A470 Northern Avenue (Coryton Interchange).” The blockage came during a typically busy period for travel in and around Cardiff, compounding rush hour congestion and raising frustrations among road users.
Commuters described the scene as “at a standstill,” with countless vehicles stationary for extended periods as emergency personnel worked to clear the affected lanes and make the scene safe. While the precise number of vehicles involved has yet to be confirmed, witnesses have reported a heavy presence of police cars, ambulances and recovery vehicles at the site.
Many motorists found themselves stranded, with some attempting to use social media to seek updates and advice on detours. Several drivers voiced concerns over the lack of early warning, while others commended the swift arrival of responding teams. The incident once again highlights the vulnerability of key transport arteries in South Wales to delays when accidents occur, with even minor collisions on such heavily trafficked routes capable of causing widespread disruption.
Traffic Wales took to Twitter to keep the public informed, stating: “Warning – Collision ⚠️ M4 eastbound J32 Coryton. Lane 2 is currently blocked. Traffic officers on route.” The message was retweeted widely among Cardiff commuters and was accompanied by images of congestion stretching along the affected stretch.
For those relying on the M4 to reach schools, workplaces or holiday destinations, the delays are an unwelcome reminder of the pressures faced by ageing road infrastructure that sees thousands of vehicles pass through every hour. With the summer period bringing increased visitor numbers to Wales, incidents such as this pose particular challenges for both local authorities and national agencies tasked with keeping the region moving.
As of mid-morning, there was no official estimate on when the affected lanes would re-open, though authorities continue to urge patience while clean-up and investigations proceed. Traffic Wales and South Wales Police have also asked drivers in the area to stay alert for further updates and to drive with extra care given the unpredictability that often follows incidents of this nature.
Whilst accidents on major routes like the M4 are unfortunately all too common, today’s crash serves as an important reminder for all road users to remain vigilant, allow additional time for journeys, and to heed official guidance when incidents arise. As recovery operations continue, drivers are advised to monitor local news sources and traffic alerts for updates on the road’s reopening and to plan their routes accordingly.