A major incident on the M5 in Somerset has left drivers stranded for hours in severe traffic congestion, with many lacking access to basic necessities like food and water. The closure was triggered by a collision between a tanker and a car near Burnham-on-Sea on the morning of Tuesday, May 5.
Avon and Somerset Police confirmed no serious injuries but reported a substantial diesel spill after the tanker jack-knifed into a barrier. National Highways teams have been engaged in removing the tanker’s 32,000-litre diesel load, warning that the motorway closure will persist throughout the afternoon and into the evening rush hour.
Despite diversion routes being set up, motorists caught within the affected stretch described near-standstill conditions lasting several hours. One driver, identified only as Gavin, shared his exhausting experience after becoming stuck since 10:10 a.m. He recounted the lack of emergency or highway service presence and the discomfort of being confined in a hot car with young children and individuals requiring medication.
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“People have been out of their cars trying to stretch, but there’s been no support like water or food,” Gavin said. “After six-and-a-half hours, I’d only progressed six miles.” He also spoke with a lorry driver who reported being trapped for 10 to 11 hours.
Other motorists echoed these concerns on social media, describing the M5 as a “car park” and noting heavy congestion on diversion routes as well. One driver reported a trip from Clevedon to Highbridge taking eight-and-a-half hours instead of the usual 25 minutes.
The closure remains in effect between junctions 22 (Burnham-on-Sea) and 23 (Bridgwater north), contributing to a 14-mile tailback and delays reportedly lasting five hours as of 5 p.m. National Highways continues to advise travelers to expect extended closures throughout the evening peak.