The M48 Severn Bridge has been closed in both directions this morning as Storm Bram brings fierce winds across the region.
The affected stretch runs between Junction 1 at Aust and Junction 2 at Chepstow, leaving drivers with little choice but to use the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge rather.
Only one lane is open each way on the necessary crossing, so motorists can anticipate slower expeditions and implicit delays throughout the day.
M48 Bridge Closure and Diversions
National Highways verified that the check was touched off by strong crosswinds funnelling through the Severn Estuary.
With gusts continuing to make, the agency says it has no option but to divert all business down from the aged M48 crossing.
The organisation stressed that the priority is keeping motorists safe, especially with Storm Bram still pushing through the South West.
A spokesperson said: “Traffic is being diverted via the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge. Please be aware that the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge currently has 2 lanes (of 3) closed in both directions for safety reasons.
#M48 #SevernBridge is closed in both directions due to strong winds associated with #StormBram
Diversion via the #M4 #PrinceofWalesBrdge – be aware there are 2 lanes (of 3) closed currently, please allow extra journey time
More info here: https://t.co/iYJLaebRRI pic.twitter.com/QkUH29wM6w
— National Highways: South-West (@HighwaysSWEST) December 9, 2025
During windy conditions, the Severn Estuary can funnel strong gusts across the bridges, which can be hazardous to traffic. The M4 Prince of Wales Bridge has barriers which reduce the effects of these gusts.
However, the older design of the M48 Severn Bridge didn’t include these barriers, and we sometimes need to restrict access to the Severn Bridge for the safety of our road users. When this happens, traffic is diverted onto the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge.”
The check has added pressure to the motorway network, with motorists now channelled onto the Prince of Wales Bridge, which itself is running with reduced capacity.
Commuters are being prompted to allow redundant trip time and check updates before leaving home.
Why does the Severn Bridge Close in High Winds?
National Highways has also explained the criteria behind these shutdowns, pointing out that on-site monitoring gives a far more accurate picture of conditions than general weather forecasts.
This helps determine when the Severn Bridge becomes unsafe for drivers, particularly high-sided vehicles.
The spokesperson added: “We use dedicated forecasts and monitoring equipment on the bridge, which are more useful than forecasts found in the media and wind speeds measured in neighbouring communities.
When we expect gusts above 40 knots (46mph), we close the Severn Bridge to all traffic until the wind speeds have dropped.
If wind speeds exceed 70 knots (80mph), both bridges are closed. Traffic can still travel between England and Wales by following a diversion using the M5, M50, A40 and A449.”
Latest Severn Bridge Status
With Storm Bram continuing to push breezy conditions across the Severn, the situation may change again depending on how the rainfall develops.
Drivers are being advised to check the rearmost trip information, as further restrictions could be introduced if winds strengthen.
For now, the M48 remains completely shut, the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge is operating with lane closures, and the wider motorway network is seeing heavier business as a result.
Motorists travelling between England and Wales should anticipate some dislocation until the storm passes and conditions stabilise.
Further updates are anticipated throughout the day as officers continue to cover the Severn crossings.
