Traffic has been diverted to single-file, before the entire bridge was shut to drivers (Image: National Highways)
“If this closure impacts on your planned route, please allow extra journey time. Plan ahead, you may wish to re-route or even delay your journey.”
Police are on the scene and have been diverting traffic before closing the stretch until further notice. The Prince of Wales Bridge links England and the cities of Newport and Cardiff in Wales.
The M48 Severn Bridge remains open in both directions.
This is a live blog. See below for the latest updates.
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Diversion Route
National Highways has advised drivers of the diversion route: “Traffic is being diverted via the M48 Severn Bridge.
“If this closure impacts on your planned route, please allow extra journey time. Plan ahead, you may wish to re-route or even delay your journey.
“Further information is available from National Highways by visiting our www.trafficengland.com website and travel apps, or via our regional Twitter feed. Our 24/7 contact centre team is also available to provide up to the minute information on 0300 123 5000.”
Latest from National Highways
National Highways said: “Avon and Somerset police are leading the response with Traffic Officers and contractors assisting with strategic closures.
“There are delays of up to 30 minutes on the approach with 6 miles of congestion back towards J19 for the M32 into Bristol.
“At this stage there are no times for reopening of the road.
“Further info on the M4 Prince of Wales bridge can be found here”
Images show aftermath of second incident
The aftermath of the second incident has been pictured by Inrix. Five vehicles were involved.
Five vehicles were involved. (Image: Inrix)
M4 eastbound reopened
M4 eastbound has been reopened but the westbound lanes remain closes as police respond to the incident at J21 M48 to J23 M48.
Queues have built up as far back as J19 (Bristol).
The M5 is very slow as far back as J17 (Cribbs Causeway).