There is chaos on the M4 and severe delays as the Prince of Wales bridge which joins England to Wales is at the immediate “risk of collapse.”
Strong winds from Storm Bram has already led to the closure of the M48 Severn Bridge as National Highways South West said they found a number of structural risks which led to the immediate removal of a number of columns.
Drivers wanting to cross the bridge are facing a two hours of delays as National Highways are doing “emergency roadworks” on the Prince of Wales Bridge.
A National Highways spokesman said, “There are severe delays approaching the M4 Prince Of Wales Bridge in both directions due to emergency roadworks. 2 lanes of 3 have had to be closed in both directions for safety reasons, awaiting emergency repairs to a number of lamp columns.
“This is due to urgent safety inspections of lighting columns on the bridge, which have identified an immediate risk.
⚠️M4 Severn Bridges update
❌Lanes 1 and 2 remain closed in both directions on the Prince of Wales bridge
❌M48 Severn bridge now closed both directions due to high winds
Heavy congestion eastbound from J26 Malpas – Prince of Wales Bridge
Over 1 hour delays reported pic.twitter.com/BH3ntwDAXL
— Traffic Wales South (@TrafficWalesS) December 9, 2025
“Testing found several columns in need of immediate removal due to the risk of collapse. However, we have to wait for the high winds to subside before work can take place.
“We appreciate your patience while we complete this vital safety work.”
Storm Bram is having a severe impact in the region and drivers are being advised to check live updates before travelling and allow more time.
