Motorists are facing severe disruption on the A1(M) this afternoon after a crash brought northbound traffic to a complete standstill near Welwyn.
Every lane of the northbound carriageway is currently closed just past the A1000 Welwyn By-Pass Road, between Welwyn and Welwyn Garden City. Traffic monitoring service the AA says congestion is stretching back as far as Junction 5 for Lemsford, and drivers should expect long delays through the area.
The closure was first reported shortly after 4.30pm. No details have yet been released about injuries, and there is no word yet on when the road might reopen. Follow our live blog below for the latest updates as we get them.
Where are the delays?
The worst of the queues are on the A1(M) northbound approaching Welwyn, but surrounding routes are also feeling the pressure as drivers hunt for alternative ways through Hertfordshire. Motorists already caught in the queues could consider leaving the A1(M) at Junction 4 for Hatfield and picking up local routes via the A1000 through Welwyn Garden City, rejoining further north — though those roads are likely to be busy too. As with recent congestion on the M25 at South Mimms, the knock-on effect can spread quickly, so check traffic conditions before setting off and allow plenty of extra time.
A stretch with a history of disruption
This is far from the first time a major route in and around the capital has ground to a halt. Commuters have dealt with everything from rush-hour chaos on the A10 at Stamford Hill to an air ambulance callout on the A2 near Gravesend in recent weeks. The A1(M) through Hertfordshire is one of the region’s busiest corridors, carrying traffic between London and the north, and even a short closure can cause tailbacks stretching for miles.
Drivers are reminded to keep a safe distance in heavy traffic, stay in lane unless directed otherwise, and never use a mobile phone behind the wheel — even when stationary in a queue.
