The A1(M) in West Yorkshire has been closed southbound between junctions 45 and 44 following a serious traffic collision, with National Highways warning the vital motorway route could remain shut throughout Tuesday afternoon and into the evening.
West Yorkshire Police are conducting collision investigation work at the scene between Wetherby and Tadcaster, causing massive delays of up to 40 minutes for thousands of motorists. Four miles of traffic has built up on approach to the closure, with congestion stretching back beyond junction 46.
National Highways Yorkshire confirmed the severity of the incident in a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter: “Collision investigations are being carried out and the closure is expected to be in place through the afternoon and into the evening.”
The agency warned drivers: “Please be aware there are delays of at least 40 mins on approach to this #A1M southbound closure between J45 (#Wetherby) and J44 (#Tadcaster).”
Emergency services remain at the scene of the collision, which occurred during Tuesday’s busy afternoon period. Details about casualties or the number of vehicles involved have not yet been released by West Yorkshire Police.
Motorists have been instructed to follow the Hollow Triangle diversion symbol on road signs to navigate around the closure. The emergency diversion route directs traffic away from the motorway at junction 45, through local roads before rejoining at junction 44.
The A1M in West Yorkshire is closed southbound between J45 near Wetherby and J44 near Tadcaster following a serious collision,” National Highways said. West Yorkshire Police are carrying out investigation work and the road is expected to remain closed through the afternoon and into the evening.
The closure has caused significant disruption along one of Yorkshire’s busiest transport corridors. The A1(M) serves as a crucial north-south route, carrying thousands of vehicles daily between major Yorkshire towns and cities.
National Highways has urged drivers to allow extra journey time and consider alternative routes where possible. The agency stressed that collision investigation work must be completed thoroughly before the carriageway can reopen.
Traffic monitoring services show extensive queuing on approach roads as drivers attempt to find alternative routes. The knock-on effect has impacted surrounding roads through Wetherby and Tadcaster as diverted traffic filters through local networks.
Emergency diversion routes are permanently signed detour routes designed to bypass major trunk road closures. The Hollow Triangle symbol indicates a secondary diversion route suitable for smaller vehicles, though all traffic types can use the designated route.
This latest incident highlights ongoing safety concerns on the A1(M), which has seen multiple serious collisions in recent years. The 20-mile stretch through North Yorkshire is considered particularly challenging due to heavy traffic volumes from both cars and HGV vehicles.
Drivers planning to use the A1(M) southbound this evening are strongly advised to check traffic updates before travelling. Real-time information is available through National Highways’ website and social media channels.
The closure comes during a particularly busy period for Yorkshire’s road network, with many commuters relying on the A1(M) for their daily journeys. Local roads through Wetherby and Tadcaster are experiencing heavy congestion as diverted traffic seeks alternative routes.
West Yorkshire Police have not yet provided an estimated reopening time, though National Highways has indicated the closure will likely extend well into Tuesday evening. Collision investigation work at serious incidents typically takes several hours to ensure all evidence is properly documented.
Motorists caught in the delays have been advised to remain patient and follow official diversion routes rather than attempting to find shortcuts through unsuitable roads. The designated diversion has been carefully planned to accommodate all vehicle types safely.
This developing situation serves as a reminder for all road users to drive carefully and maintain safe distances, particularly during busy periods. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available from the emergency services.
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