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Traffic Filtering During High Winds
M48 Severn Bridge During High Winds
New traffic filtering system keeps bridge open longer for cars and vans
Did you know that between 1992 and 1996, 13 vehicles blew over on the Severn Bridge during high winds, resulting in more than 47 hours of closure?
The Severn Bridge currently operates under a High Winds Protocol, which dictates that, once wind speeds reach 40 knots, the bridge is closed to all traffic.
However, we recognise that closing the M48 Severn Bridge to all vehicles during periods of high winds has an impact on road users by increasing journey times and, at times, congestion on the M4. This is why we are looking at ways to keep the bridge open to small vans and cars for longer whilst still operating safely during such times.
From Monday 24 September 2007, we introduced a traffic filtering system. Once wind speeds reach 40 knots, the bridge will remain open to vehicles under 6'9" (2.1m). Vehicles over this height and motorcycles will not be permitted to use the M48 Severn Bridge, and must use an alternative route (34KB GIF). Filtering will operate between 0600 and 2200 hours. Outside of these hours, the bridge will be closed to all traffic if the wind is above 40 knots.
Advance warning signs will be displayed and Highways Agency Traffic Officers will provide a high visibility presence initially to help reinforce the changes. The Police will also support the operation. Drivers who ignore the advice and attempt to use the bridge will be committing an offence and may face prosecution.
If wind speeds reach 60 knots, the bridge will be closed to all traffic.
The revised protocol will be monitored for compliance. If it is found that high-sided vehicles and motorcycles are not complying with the signs, then we will have to revert to closure to all traffic at 40 knots to maintain public safety.
For more information, call the Highways Agency Information Line on 0300 123 5000 (open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year) email: ha_info@highways.gsi.gov.uk.
