Key Highlights
- Major delays on the M5 motorway due to flooding and crashes.
- Traffic stopped between junction 20 and 19 near Portishead in Somerset.
- Delays expected until 7pm on November 14, 2025.
- Flooding closed one lane of the northbound carriageway.
Traffic Chaos on M5 Motorway
On Friday, November 14, 2025, the M5 motorway experienced significant disruptions due to a combination of heavy rain and infrastructure issues. The delays were particularly severe between junctions 20 and 19 near Portishead in Somerset.
Infrastructure Defect and Flooding
National Highways reported that traffic was stopped on the northbound carriageway due to a combination of an infrastructure defect and a separate collision. The situation worsened as heavy rain continued, leading to flooding which closed one lane of the northbound route.
Delays and Recovery
The delays were severe, with traffic held for over two hours against expected travel times. National Highways provided updates throughout the day, with the latest update on 16:23 stating that while some traffic had been released, delays remained due to emergency repairs and the ongoing infrastructure defect.
Expected Duration
National Highways estimated that delays would continue until around 7pm on November 14, 2025. The company advised drivers to allow extra time for their journeys and expressed gratitude for their patience. Emergency services were also notified of the situation.
Impact on Local Communities
The traffic disruptions had a significant impact on local communities in Somerset. Businesses and commuters faced prolonged commutes, potentially affecting productivity and daily routines. Local authorities and emergency services worked to manage the situation, ensuring the safety of road users and providing updates through official channels.
Future Implications
The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by transportation networks in managing severe weather conditions. As climate change continues to increase the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, infrastructure resilience is becoming a critical issue for national transport systems.
National Highways stated that they were working closely with service providers to address the issues and ensure a swift recovery. The company also emphasized the importance of maintaining preparedness in managing future incidents, which may become more frequent due to changing climatic conditions.
