DRIVERS have been left stranded on the M5 in South Gloucestershire after heavy rainfall flooded the motorway.
Emergency services were called to the scene at around 1am this morning, September 27 to help people from their cars and to clear the flooding.
The motorway is currently closed northbound between junction 16 for Aztec West and junction 14 for Falfield.
Meanwhile, the southbound carriageway was shut between junction 14 for Falfield and J15 for the Almondsbury Interchange.
Images on social media showed several cars in the middle of the motorway in affected areas.
The southbound carriageway reopened at 9am, but long queues still remain between junction 14 and junction 15.
To avoid the closure, drivers have been urged to use the A38 through Rudgeway and Alveston - which has led to more congestion in the area.
Teams responding to the flooding included Avon and Somerset Fire & Rescue, the Environment Agency, Avon and Somerset Police and the National Highways.
In a statement at 6am, a spokesperson from Avon Fire & Rescue Service said: “The M5 is currently closed in both directions due to significant flooding on the motorway.
“Northbound is closed between J16 and J14 and southbound is closed between J14 and J15.
“Since 1am, firefighters, police and highways have been on the scene, working together to keep drivers safe and pump excess water off the motorway.
“We advise motorists to avoid travelling in the area.
“Thank you for your patience.”
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