M5 Traffic Chaos: Four-Mile Queues After Van Overturns Between Junction 6 and Junction 5 in the West Midlands

Published on November 27, 2025

Drivers on the M5 northbound faced severe traffic delays on the morning of November 28, following a serious collision between Junction 6 (Worcester) and Junction 5 (Wychbold). The crash, involving an overturned van, led to a four-mile queue and caused significant disruption to traffic throughout the West Midlands. The incident, which occurred early in the morning, caused lane closures, delays of up to 90 minutes, and extensive congestion on one of the busiest motorways in the UK.

National Highways reported that three of the four lanes had to be closed for recovery and clean-up operations, further compounding the traffic problems. The collision affected thousands of commuters, with some drivers stranded in the queue for over an hour before lanes began to reopen. By 9:34 am, the situation had improved with all lanes reopened, but the four-mile congestion continued to cause residual delays of approximately 25 minutes above usual journey times.

The Impact of the Van Overturn on M5 Traffic

The crash occurred at around 6:42 am, when West Midlands Ambulance Service received reports of a road traffic collision (RTC) involving a lorry and a van on the M5 northbound between Junctions 6 and 7 in Warndon. Emergency services arrived at the scene promptly, with one man treated for potentially serious injuries. He was subsequently conveyed to Worcester Royal Hospital for further medical attention.

As a result of the crash, three lanes of the M5 northbound were initially closed to allow for the recovery operation, leading to significant traffic delays. The closure caused a seven-mile queue and 90-minute delays by 8:56 am, as recovery efforts were underway. A combination of closed lanes and the high volume of traffic during rush hour made for challenging conditions on the motorway.

What Caused the Delays?

The incident was caused by an overturned van, which led to significant disruption to traffic flow. The high winds and heavy leaf fall common in the West Midlands at this time of year can also contribute to conditions that lead to accidents. National Highways has regularly warned that debris on the road or slippery conditions due to weather can cause additional challenges for drivers, particularly on busy routes like the M5.

Once recovery operations were completed, all lanes were reopened, but the effects of the crash were still felt across the area. Delays remained for several hours as vehicles moved slowly past the incident site. According to National Highways, drivers were advised to use alternative routes or allow extra time for their journeys.

The Impact on Business and Tourist Travel

The M5 is a key route for both business travel and tourist traffic, connecting Worcester, Birmingham, and Bristol, among other major cities. For business travelers, the incident disrupted morning meetings and business operations, causing delays to those attempting to attend conferences or corporate events.

Tourists traveling to popular destinations in the West Midlands or Wales, such as Birmingham, Warwick, or Shropshire, may have experienced delays when trying to catch flights or train connections. Those planning trips to historic sites like Warwick Castle or the Cotswolds may have been affected, as the M5 serves as a key connector to these regions.

What You Need to Know: M5 Travel Tips

1. Plan Ahead:

If you’re planning to travel on the M5 northbound, especially between Junction 6 (Worcester) and Junction 5 (Wychbold), check traffic updates before setting off. You can also plan alternate routes to avoid congestion. Websites like National Highways and real-time traffic apps can provide live updates on closures and delays.

2. Expect Delays During Peak Times:

For business travelers and tourists heading into London or the Midlands, try to avoid traveling during peak times, especially on weekdays. Morning rush hour (around 7 am to 9 am) is when delays are most severe.

3. Check Your Emergency Kit:

In case you find yourself stuck in traffic, make sure your car has essential supplies such as water, snacks, a phone charger, and a blanket. Being prepared can make long delays more manageable, particularly during the colder months.

4. Monitor Local News and Social Media:

For real-time updates on incidents like the one on the M5, follow National Highways’ social media channels or local news outlets. Updates on road closures and recovery operations are regularly posted.

5. Consider Alternative Travel Options:

If you’re not in a rush and want to avoid motorway delays, train services or coach routes may offer a smoother journey. Consider using rail services for travel between key cities like Birmingham and London to avoid road disruptions.

Key Points at a Glance

• A van overturned on the M5 northbound between Junction 6 (Worcester) and Junction 5 (Wychbold), causing four-mile queues and 90-minute delays.
• The M5 was partially closed for recovery efforts, with three lanes blocked before reopening.
• The crash involved one man, who was treated for potentially serious injuries by West Midlands Ambulance Service.
• National Highways advised drivers to use alternative routes due to the severe congestion and delays.
• The incident caused major disruption to both business and tourism traffic, particularly for travelers to the West Midlands.

Conclusion: Navigating Traffic Delays on the M5

The M5 northbound collision near Junctions 6 and 5 has caused significant disruption, impacting both business travelers and tourists. As traffic begins to ease following the incident, drivers are still facing residual delays. It is recommended that those traveling in the region stay informed about road conditions, avoid peak hours, and consider alternative routes or travel options to ensure a smoother journey. Whether you’re commuting to work or heading to your next adventure, staying ahead of traffic issues is key to minimizing disruptions.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated