The M4 and M48 are shut in both directions after remains of a human were uncovered on the highway close to Bristol.
The remains were located between junctions J20 (Almondsbury Interchange) and J21 (Awkley), to the north of Bristol on the M4.
Multiple drivers reported the situation at approximately 6:40 PM after spotting ‘something on the road,’ as stated by the authorities.
Upon their arrival, officers discovered the human remains.
Avon and Somerset Police remarked: ‘Investigations are currently in progress to ascertain the identity of the deceased and inform next of kin, while inquiries into how the individual ended up on the motorway are ongoing.
‘The closure is anticipated to remain in effect until the early hours of Sunday, 23 February.
Consequently, both motorways are blocked to traffic near the Severn Bridge M48 and the Prince of Wales Bridge M4. However, the Severn Crossing remains operational.
Drivers have been ensnared in the road closure. Traffic is being redirected in phases under the oversight of Traffic Officers and the police, according to National Highways.
One driver shared on social media that her family had been stranded by the road closure since 7 PM without access to food, water, or restroom facilities.
A woman mentioned her elderly parents, whose health conditions would not permit them to remain there ‘for an extended period,’ were trapped among the first few vehicles.
National Highways indicated that turning vehicles around ‘is a complicated and time-consuming process due to the volume of traffic and the location.’
Motorists are advised against attempting to navigate around ‘for your own safety’ until instructed by the authorities.
The M5 link road is additionally closed south to M4’s junction 20 west, stated National Highways.
Travelers journeying between England and Wales across the two bridges should prepare for significant delays as the routes remain partially obstructed.
M4 and M48 Closures
Here is an exhaustive list of the ongoing closures on the M4 and M48 in South Gloucestershire.
M4
- Closed in both directions between junctions J20-J22, linking Almondsbury and Severn Bridges
M48
- Closed in both directions between junction J1 and M4
The subsequent link roads from the M5 are also closed.
- Link from the M5 J15 south to M4 J20 west
- Link from the M5 J16 north to M4 J20 west
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