M4 diversion route after lorry carrying hay bursts into flames near Bristol

A diversion is in place on the M4 due to a lorry fire this afternoon (April 24). The westbound carriageway is closed between junction 18 for Bath and junction 19 for Bristol.

Avon Fire and Rescue Service were called after the blaze, which reportedly involved a lorry carrying hay, broke out shortly before 4pm. National Highways said that the carriageway was closed due to the "intense nature of the fire" and there are now severe delays.

A diversion is now in place for motorists travelling westbound. They are advised to follow this route:

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• Exit the M4 at J18 onto the A46 headed southbound and continue for approx. 3.5 miles.

• At the A420/A46 junction, take the A420 headed westbound and continue for approx. 5 miles.

• At the A4174/A420 junction, take the A4174 headed northbound and continue for approx. 5.5 miles to the M32 J1 roundabout.

• Take the M32 northbound and re-join the M4 at J19.

National Highways said: "At around 15:58 Avon Fire and Rescue Service advised us of a vehicle fire on the M4 westbound involving a HGV carrying bales of hay.

"Due to the intense nature of the fire the carriageway has been closed while the fire service tackle the blaze. National Highways Traffic Officers are in attendance assisting the emergency services with traffic management."

National Highways: South West said in a post on X at 4.53pm: "Traffic is currently held westbound #M4 J18 to #J19 (#M32). This is due to a lorry fire.

"The fire service is on scene dealing and National Highways Traffic Officers are assisting with traffic management. #Gloucestershire Expect long delays."

Traffic monitoring site Inrix says: "M4 Westbound closed, severe delays due to lorry fire from J18 A46 (Bath / Tormarton) to J19 M32 (Bristol).

"The road has closed around 16:40 with camera showing traffic coming off at J18 (Bath / Tormarton) exit slip, traffic has been held around 16:35, reported the lorry is carrying hay."

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