M48 Severn Bridge closed in both directions amid strong winds; diversions via M4 in place

The M48 Severn Bridge is closed in both directions because of strong winds, with the closure spanning between Junction 2 (A466 Wye Valley Link Road) and Junction 1 (A403) at Aust. National Highways said traffic is being diverted via the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge, which remains open to all traffic. Motorists are advised to plan routes in advance and allow extra time to travel.

Dozens of flood alerts are in place across England and Wales as forecasters warn that wind gusts could reach up to 75 mph as stormy conditions move across the country in the coming days. The Met Office said some of the strongest winds are likely along the Bristol Channel and the west coast of Wales.

The closure is part of broader weather disruption affecting much of the region, with officials directing cross-river traffic to the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge and advising travelers to monitor live traffic updates. While the M4 bridge remains open to all traffic, authorities caution that diversions may still experience delays and congestion as crews respond to gusty winds and flood risk.

Meteorological agencies have warned that the storm system could linger, bringing continued travel disruption across parts of England and Wales. Emergency services and highway agencies are closely monitoring conditions and are ready to issue further updates if closures or diversions are adjusted. Motorists are encouraged to remain vigilant for weather advisories, particularly along exposed routes and high-sided vehicles, as the situation evolves.