Key Highlights
- M5 motorway closed between junctions 28 and 29 due to a serious crash.
- All southbound traffic held as one lane reopened for repair work.
- Emergency services, including ambulances and fire crews, attended the scene.
- Traffic delays extended up to three miles in both directions approaching the incident site.
M5 Crash: Emergency Response and Traffic Impacts
On October 27, 2025, a serious crash on the M5 motorway between junctions 28 (Cullompton / Service Area) and 29 (Exeter Airport) in Devon caused significant disruptions to southbound traffic. Emergency services were promptly dispatched to the scene, with ambulances, fire crews, and police present to manage the situation.
Initial Closure and Traffic Halt
The crash occurred at approximately 9:37 am, leading to a complete closure of the M5 southbound from junctions 28-29. According to traffic monitoring site Inrix, the accident involved a vehicle that crashed through the central reservation, resulting in all traffic being held back and stationary along the affected section.
Update on Traffic Conditions
National Highways reported that one lane (lane 1) of the southbound carriageway between junctions 28-29 had reopened by 11:06 am, allowing some traffic movement. However, two lanes remained closed as emergency services and traffic officers worked to resolve the situation.
Devon and Cornwall Police advised drivers to expect delays in the area and provided updates on the status of the closure:
- The M5 has been partially reopened from junctions 28-30, but drivers should still anticipate significant delays.
- Northbound traffic faced one lane of closure due to damage to the central reservation for repair work.
- Southbound traffic continued to face two lanes closed post-collision, with some movement possible in lane 1.
Witness Accounts and Community Engagement
A witness reported that a car had crashed into the central reservation between junctions 28-29. Another person noted an abundance of emergency vehicles at the scene, including ambulances and possibly air ambulance services. The incident led to severe traffic congestion, with queues extending up to three miles in both directions approaching the crash site.
The community was encouraged to provide information or pictures if it was safe to do so, highlighting the impact on local residents’ daily commutes and travel plans.
Conclusion
The M5 motorway closure between junctions 28-29 in Devon serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the prompt response required from emergency services. As traffic conditions continue to evolve, drivers are advised to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys. The incident underscores the challenges faced by transportation authorities and emergency responders when dealing with major incidents on heavily used motorways like the M5.
