Is a Major Bridge Closure Disrupting Travel Amid Christmas Day Winds?

The Severn Bridge on the M48 has been closed on Christmas Day due to high winds battering the UK coastline, with National Highways implementing diversion protocols to ensure road safety. The bridge closure aims to protect motorists from hazardous conditions, directing traffic to the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge, which remains open. This decision highlights the importance of safety during severe weather events, particularly in areas like the Severn Estuary known for strong gusts.

Last updated: 25 December 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

On this Christmas Day, the M48 Severn Bridge linking Gloucestershire and Wales has been closed to all traffic due to the forecast of strong winds. National Highways has advised that the closure is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of road users, as wind gusts can reach hazardous levels across the bridge. Traffic is currently being diverted to the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge, which is equipped with barriers designed to mitigate wind effects, making it safer for vehicles during adverse weather conditions.

Key takeaways

The M48 Severn Bridge is closed due to high wind speeds.
Traffic is being redirected to the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge.
National Highways prioritises road user safety during severe weather.

Timeline: how we got here

As of Christmas Day, 25 December 2023, the Severn Bridge closure follows a series of adverse weather warnings issued by the Met Office. Here are some key milestones leading to the current situation:

23 December 2023: Met Office issues alerts for high winds across the UK.
24 December 2023: National Highways begins preparations for potential bridge closures.
25 December 2023: M48 Severn Bridge officially closed; traffic diverted to the M4.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The latest update indicates that the M48 Severn Bridge is closed due to an expected increase in wind speeds, with gusts forecasted to exceed 40 knots (46 mph). National Highways confirmed that the closure will remain in effect as conditions are monitored throughout the day.

What was already established

Prior to today, it was known that the Severn Bridge could be closed in high winds, particularly when gusts are forecasted to exceed 40 knots. National Highways has a protocol in place to divert traffic to the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge, which is better equipped to handle windy conditions.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

This closure could lead to delays for motorists planning to travel across the Severn Estuary, particularly on a day like Christmas, when many families may be travelling. The diversion to the M4 may result in longer journey times, especially with holiday traffic.

Businesses and jobs

For businesses that rely on road transport across the Severn Bridge, such as logistics firms, this closure can disrupt supply chains. Companies will need to adjust their operations to accommodate the diversion, potentially resulting in increased costs and delays.

Policy and regulation

National Highways has outlined its safety measures regarding bridge closures during adverse weather. Their policy includes monitoring wind speeds and implementing closures to ensure public safety, which reflects a proactive approach to infrastructure management in the face of climate-related events.

Numbers that matter

40 knots (46 mph): Wind speed threshold for closing the M48 Severn Bridge.
70 knots (80 mph): Wind speed threshold for closing both Severn bridges.
Estimated 2,000 vehicles: Daily traffic volume across the M48, affected by the closure.

Definitions and jargon buster

M48 Severn Bridge: A key road bridge connecting England and Wales that can be affected by severe weather conditions.
M4 Prince of Wales Bridge: An alternative bridge with safety barriers to manage wind effects better.
National Highways: The government agency responsible for operating, maintaining, and improving England's motorways and major roads.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Motorists should stay informed about weather conditions and potential road closures during winter months. Traffic can be significantly impacted by high winds or other severe weather events.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As winter progresses, monitoring and maintenance of the Severn Bridge and alternative routes will be crucial. National Highways will likely continue to evaluate weather patterns to preemptively manage future closures.

Signals to watch

Wind speed forecasts from the Met Office.
Traffic updates from National Highways regarding bridge status.
Potential future weather warnings that could affect travel plans.

Practical guidance

Do

Check traffic updates before travelling.
Allow extra time for journeys during adverse weather conditions.
Consider alternative routes if the Severn Bridge is closed.

Don’t

Attempt to cross closed bridges.
Ignore safety warnings issued by authorities.
Drive recklessly in adverse weather conditions.

Checklist

Check your vehicle’s condition (tyres, brakes, lights).
Ensure you have emergency supplies in your vehicle.
Stay updated on weather forecasts.
Plan your route in advance and consider diversions.
Have a charged mobile phone for emergencies.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the closure of the M48 Severn Bridge is a precautionary measure, weather conditions can be unpredictable. Higher than expected gusts could lead to longer closures or additional road restrictions. It is important for drivers to remain vigilant and flexible with travel plans, especially during unpredictable winter weather.

Bottom line

The closure of the M48 Severn Bridge on Christmas Day highlights the importance of safety in adverse weather conditions. As motorists are redirected to the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge, individuals should remain cautious and informed about ongoing weather updates and potential travel disruptions. Planning ahead can help mitigate the impact of such closures on holiday travel.

FAQs

Why is the Severn Bridge closed today?

The Severn Bridge is closed due to high wind speeds, with gusts expected to exceed 40 knots, posing a safety risk to road users.

What is the diversion route for traffic?

Traffic is being diverted to the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge, which remains open and is better equipped to handle windy conditions.

How does National Highways decide to close the bridge?

National Highways closes the Severn Bridge if wind speeds are forecasted to reach 40 knots or higher, prioritising safety for all road users.