Major Cross-Border Route Closed for Safety
The M48 Severn Bridge, a critical transport link connecting England and Wales, was closed in both directions on November 15, 2025 due to an emergency infrastructure defect. The closure was implemented at approximately 1pm as a precautionary safety measure, requiring immediate, safety-critical repairs.
Official Diversions and Travel Advice
A spokesman for Traffic Wales confirmed the closure, stating: ‘The M48 Severn Bridge is closed in both directions due to emergency works.’ Drivers are being officially diverted via the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge, which remains fully open to all traffic.
National Highways elaborated on its website, explaining that the eastbound closure between J2 (Chepstow) and J1 (Aust) in Gloucestershire was necessary to protect road users while specialist engineering teams assess and rectify the problem. They emphasised that ensuring the integrity of the bridge and the safety of the public is their top priority.
Motorists whose routes are affected have been strongly advised to allow extra journey time and consider re-routing or even delaying their travel plans. Traffic Officers are on-site managing the strategic closures.
Compounding Weather Chaos
This significant transport disruption comes as Storm Claudia continues to sweep across Wales, bringing with it ‘danger to life’ warnings. The storm has caused severe flooding, leading to evacuations and the declaration of a major incident in areas like Monmouth, where the River Monnow burst its banks.
With more than 40 flood alerts and warnings across Wales, the combination of the bridge closure and adverse weather conditions is creating widespread travel chaos for residents and commuters in both nations.
