Major motorway closed after car erupts in flames sparking bank holiday delays for thousands of drivers
A CAR fire has caused a major motorway to be closed causing bank holiday travel chaos for thousands of motorists.
The M4 has been closed between J23 and J23a due to the blaze, Gwent Police have said.
Diversions are in place which may cause congestion.
The force advises drivers to avoid the area if possible and find alternative routes for your journey.
Earlier this week, drivers were warned they could face severe delays to their journeys over the Spring Bank Holiday weekend.
A whopping 17.9 million Brits face being hit with a "double dose of delays" when they take to the roads with experts advising on the best times to travel.
Read More on UK News
Figures from the RAC show up to 3million journeys on Bank Holiday Monday, May 26, for the start of the half-term are expected to be made.
Drivers who are able to do so are advised to leave their journeys as late as possible as traffic is expected to peter out later in the day.
RAC Mobile Mechanic, Aaron Bryan, said: "Our research shows it really is best to leave as early or late as possible this bank holiday weekend, as the majority of motorists are planning to set off in the morning.
“While Devon and Cornwall remain some of the most popular destinations for summer getaways, many other major routes across the country could be hit by increased traffic – not least the M25 which so many drivers use to reach the coast and the South East.
Most read in The Sun
Just 3 percent of motorists are planning their journeys for between 7pm and 1pm after the evening rush hour.
The RAC also advised to travel at cooler hours of the day if the warmer weather continues to save fuel and reduce the chance of older cars overheating.
Regardless of the weather, they advise all drivers to always check their vehicles' oil and coolant levels as well as tyre pressure and tread depth.
Aaron Bryan said: "Alternatively, an can check any battery or brake pad issues before you travel, along with diagnosing any faults signalled by dashboard warning lights.
"There’s no need to squeeze in a last-minute trip to the garage either, as we can come to you at home or work.
“In hot temperatures, it’s wise to carry lots of water, food and a tool kit, with jump leads, torch and some first aid basics.
"In the worst-case scenario of a breakdown, make sure you’ve got an umbrella and sunscreen to provide shade for all passengers when awaiting assistance."
