M5 traffic: Drivers face chaos as serious crash 'involving fuel tanker' causes major diesel spill

Motorists are being warned of hours-long delays on a major motorway following a serious collision and large diesel spill.

The M5 in Somerset is closed southbound between J22 (Burnham on Sea) and J23 (Puriton) after an accident involving a heavy goods vehicle and a car.

National Highways reports that a large diesel spill and nearside barrier damage have been confirmed as a result of the accident.

Drivers are currently facing long delays of more than two hours, while normal traffic conditions are not expected to return until after 2pm this afternoon.

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The incident was first reported shortly before 4.30am, with emergency services attending the scene.

National Highways confirmed that traffic caught within the closure has been released, with vehicle recovery and clear-up taking place.

In addition to delays of up to 120 minutes, motorists are also dealing with six miles of congestion on the approach to J22.

Posting on social media site X, formerly known as Twitter, the transport organisation added that the carriageway remains closed as vehicle recovery takes place.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that a number of its fire resources had been mobilised to the M5 after the police requested assistance.

Upon arriving, it was confirmed that no one was trapped inside any of the vehicles present, although the incident "involved a fuel tanker".

As a result, additional resources were mobilised and most vehicles were released shortly after the incident.

A spokesperson added: "There had been a fuel leak from the tractor unit of the tanker, so one crew and a hazardous materials officer are remaining on scene while they await the arrival of recovery vehicles.

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"The traffic backed up behind the incident unable to get off the M5 has been released using lane three, but after that, the road will remain closed."

Avon and Somerset Police said it is not believed that anyone was seriously injured in the accident.

National Highways called on motorists to avoid the area and potentially even delay their journey if they need to use the M5.

It has also set out a signposted diversion route for motorists to follow if they are in the area.

Road users are advised to follow the Solid Diamond diversion symbol on road signs

• Exit the M5 at J22 then take the A38 (Bristol Road)
• Continue on the A38 southbound then take the A39 (Down End)
• Re-join the M5 J23 southbound

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