The A46 road, a major route through Warwickshire, has been closed due to severe flooding and accidents, causing significant travel disruption for commuters and local residents. The dual carriageway is shut in both directions between the A452 near Kenilworth and M40 Junction 15 following reports of vehicles aquaplaning due to excessive water on the roadway.
According to local reports, the closure began early on January 6, 2025, when emergency services rushed to the scene around 5am. A spokesperson for West Midlands Ambulance Service mentioned, "We were called to reports of a road traffic collision involving a car and a lorry in floodwater on the northbound carriageway of the A46 Warwick bypass at 5.09am this morning." The driver of the car, who was treated for non-life-threatening injuries, was taken to Warwick Hospital.
The incident triggered immediate responses from Warwickshire Police and National Highways, which deployed traffic officers and contractors to manage the situation. National Highways announced, "Contractors are on-site working to manage and clear the flooding. The road will remain closed until the water levels are reduced and the situation is deemed safe for traffic." This closure has severely affected travel routes, with significant congestion reported on surrounding roads as drivers sought alternate routes.
Traffic delays were compounded as local authorities warned motorists to allow extra time for their journeys. National Highways advised, "If this closure impacts your planned route, please allow extra time for your journeys. Plan ahead; you may wish to re-route or even delay your trip."
Weather conditions have played a substantial role in the flooding situation across Warwickshire. The Met Office indicated forecasts of cold air returning after bouts of rain and milder temperatures had added to the groundwater levels. Deputy chief forecaster Mike Silverstone commented, "This will bring sleet, snow, and hail showers, with many areas struggling to reach freezing temperatures for several days." These adverse conditions have heightened the risk of ice and continued flooding across the region.
Warnings from the Environment Agency were issued anticipating potential flooding scenarios, particularly from the River Anker, which could encroach on properties and roads. An alarmed spokesperson noted the river levels had risen, raising concerns about forthcoming flooding, particularly affecting Nuneaton Town Centre. Residents there were warned to prepare for possible effects from increased water levels influenced by forecasted heavy rain.
The A46 bypass closure has triggered widespread public notifications about other areas enduring severe flooding. Reports surfaced about impassable roads across Coventry and other nearby regions, straining traffic management systems and emergency service responses. For example, roads like Holbrook Way and Market Street faced blockages due to floodwater accumulation.
Further complicate matters, the surrounding area reported additional incidents of vehicles being stranded due to floods, prompting police to urge drivers, "Please take caution when out driving and only travel if necessary." Clearly, the relentless downpour has caught many drivers off guard, forcing the community and officials to manage the situation as best they can.
Regrettably, the A46 will remain closed for the foreseeable future and may create complications for those heading back to work and school following the holiday season. Families and commuters are expressing growing frustration at the lack of clear resolutions and the chaotic road conditions. One commuter lamented the situation, saying, "It's hard to plan when the roads are changing every hour."
Although some progress has been made with the deployment of contractors, there are no definitive timelines for when the A46 will reopen. The situation remains fluid as officials continue to mitigate flooding issues and navigate the aftermath of these traumatic accidents and weather conditions.
With feverish uncertainty looming, residents and commuters are urged to stay tuned to local news updates for the latest travel advisories and weather reports. Further updates from Warwickshire Police and National Highways are expected to address safety measures and prevailing road conditions as they continue to monitor the situation closely.