DRIVERS are facing major delays on the A38 between Taunton and Wellington due to flash flooding.

Standing water at various points along the route, including near Willowbrook Nurseries and Garden Centre, which resulted in a car becoming stuck in floods, is contributing to major tailbacks.

There are long delays from the roundabout on the A38 roundabout at Galmington trading estate as far as Wellington itself.

National Highways is now advising drivers in the South West to take extra care following surface water and flooding issues caused by today’s thunderstorms.

The M5 has since reopened after a closure southbound between junctions 25 (Taunton) and 26 (Wellington) due to surface water, and was earlier closed southbound between junctions 14 (Thornbury, Falfield) and 15 (Almondsbury) due to flooding.

Roads were turned into rivers on the Blackdown Hills above Wellington.
Roads were turned into rivers on the Blackdown Hills above Wellington. ( )

David Britton, National Highways' South West Operations Manager, said: "Keeping our roads safe for drivers during difficult weather conditions is a major part of our work and our teams are dealing with a number of weather-related incidents in the region.

"In the meantime, we advise people to check on the weather conditions, plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys.

"If it’s time for your wipers, it’s time to slow down. The roads will be more slippery than usual, so give yourself more time to react – increase the gap between you and the vehicle in front to at least four seconds

“Drivers should look out for standing water, slow their speed and adjust their driving before and after encountering any.”

Up-to-date travel information is available from National Highways by visiting www.trafficengland.com a nd Twitter updates are also available via X (formerly Twitter) at @HighwaysSWEST.

And for urgent real-time assistance, the company’s 24/7 contact centre team is able to provide up-to-the minute information on 0300 123 5000.