M5 traffic chaos: Air ambulance at scene after crash involving 2 lorries - 13-MILE queues

The accident happened at around 1.30pm on Friday afternoon, between junctions 22 and 21, on the northbound route of the M5. All lanes of the carriageway in both directions closed at the time of the crash, so emergency services could reach the scene. This included an air ambulance. It is one of a number of incidents that occurred on the motorway today.

All lanes of the southbound carriageway reopened shortly after 3 pm.

However, police said the northbound route will remain closed "for some time", without providing a timeframe.

An air ambulance also arrived at the scene. 

It is still unknown how many people were injured and what their condition is.

On the southbound carriageway, which has now reopened, there is congestion of approximately 13 miles.

On the northbound, the queues reach about five miles, on approach to the closure at J22.

National Highways advised road users to follow the solid triangle diversion symbol on road signs.

The service suggested the following alternative route:

• Exit at J22
• At the roundabout take the 3rd exit onto the A38 northbound
• At E Brent roundabout take the 1st exit onto the A370
• Re-join the M5 at J21

Traffic monitoring service Inrix said shortly after the accident: "M5 Northbound closed, stationary traffic due to serious accident between J22 (Burnham-on-sea) and J21 A370 (Weston-super-mare).

"The road is now fully closed following an accident at 1.35 pm.

While National Highways confirmed: "The #M5 northbound is closed between J22 (#BurnhamOnSea) and J21(#WestonSuperMare) due to a serious collision.

"Emergency services and Traffic Officers are on scene. Delays are beginning to build on approach to closure. More details to follow."