Published on October 19, 2025
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A section of the M5 southbound in Devon was closed early today following a dramatic accident that saw a car overturn and catch fire. The incident, which occurred on the morning of [insert date], left the southbound lanes of the motorway blocked between junction 30, connecting to the A376 Sidmouth Road at the Exeter services area, and junction 31, which leads to the A38 Okehampton turn-off.

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Devon and Cornwall Police responded swiftly to the scene, with emergency services working to contain the situation. The overturned vehicle, which had caught fire, prompted the closure of the southbound carriageway to ensure the safety of both the public and the emergency personnel on-site. Fortunately, the driver of the vehicle sustained only minor injuries.
While the initial response saw the northbound lanes closed briefly, police confirmed by 9:50 AM that all lanes were reopened, allowing traffic to resume its usual flow. However, the accident and subsequent closures have caused significant delays and disruptions, particularly for travelers heading south into the West Country.

The Incident: What Happened on the M5?

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At around 7:45 AM BST, authorities received reports of a serious accident on the southbound M5 in Devon. According to Devon and Cornwall Police, a car had overturned and caught fire, blocking a major section of the motorway. Emergency teams from the police, fire service, and paramedics quickly arrived at the scene to assess the situation and manage the incident. The driver, who was in the car at the time, fortunately only suffered minor injuries, but the fire posed a significant challenge for authorities.
In an initial precautionary move, the police closed off both the northbound and southbound lanes, while efforts to extinguish the fire and clear the wreckage were underway. Following a swift response, all lanes were reopened by 9:50 AM, but the morning commute had already been impacted, with traffic backing up on surrounding routes.

Impact on Business Travel and Tourism in the Region

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The closure of such a busy route as the M5 can have significant knock-on effects for both local businesses and tourists traveling in and out of the region. For tourists, particularly those heading toward Cornwall or Devon’s scenic coastal areas, this disruption can be a setback, especially during the busy travel season.
The M5 is a major artery for both freight and leisure traffic. With Devon being a popular holiday destination, especially for family vacations, delays caused by accidents like this one can be frustrating for tourists who are looking to reach their destinations quickly. Many will be relying on alternative routes, which may lead to additional congestion and longer travel times.
Businesses operating in the region may also face challenges. Supply chains could be disrupted, and local shops and restaurants could see a decline in foot traffic due to the delays, as visitors may choose to avoid traveling during peak times. For business travelers, timely arrival is essential, and this incident serves as a reminder to plan for potential disruptions on major routes.

Tips for Travelers Affected by the M5 Road Closure

If you’re planning to travel through Devon or surrounding areas, here are some tips to help you avoid further delays and make your journey as smooth as possible:

1. Check Live Traffic Updates:
   Always stay updated on the latest traffic conditions before setting out. Services like Inrix and the official Highways England website provide real-time updates about closures, delays, and alternative routes.
2. Consider Alternative Routes:
   Depending on your destination, consider using other nearby routes like the A38 or A30, which may help you avoid the traffic jam caused by the M5 closure.
3. Avoid Peak Travel Times:
   If possible, plan your travel outside of rush hour, especially during the morning and evening when traffic is heaviest. Since the M5 incident occurred early in the morning, the disruption was most intense during peak commuting hours.
4. Allow Extra Travel Time:
   For those heading to Cornwall or other popular tourist spots, it’s always advisable to allow extra time in case of unexpected delays or detours. This is especially important during busy travel seasons when roads are often crowded.
5. Stay Safe and Follow Official Instructions:
   Always follow the instructions of emergency services and avoid areas that may still be hazardous. If you’re driving through the area, keep an eye on variable message signs and road alerts for guidance.
6. Use Public Transport Where Possible:
   If you’re in the region and planning to travel from Devon to other areas, consider using trains or buses as an alternative to driving. The train service between Exeter and other major cities like London is a reliable option during road disruptions.

Emergency Services Response and Resolution

The prompt response by Devon and Cornwall Police, as well as the fire services, helped ensure that the situation was dealt with quickly and efficiently. The police cordoned off the affected areas and worked to clear the scene, ensuring minimal disruption to the surrounding environment. Within a couple of hours, they managed to reopen all lanes, allowing traffic to return to normal. The driver of the overturned vehicle was assessed by paramedics at the scene and received the necessary medical attention before being allowed to leave.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for vigilance when traveling, particularly during busy times. While accidents can happen, the swift response from emergency services helps mitigate the impact and restore normalcy on major roads as quickly as possible.

What This Means for Tourism in the Region

Devon and Cornwall are major tourist destinations, attracting visitors with their stunning beaches, charming villages, and cultural landmarks. Disruptions like the one on the M5 can momentarily affect the flow of visitors, but the region’s resilience and commitment to providing excellent transport services ensure that tourists and business travelers alike can continue to enjoy all that this beautiful part of the UK has to offer.
Despite temporary setbacks, the tourism sector in Devon remains strong, with tourists eager to explore the countryside and coastal regions. With improvements to roads and the transport network planned for the future, visitors can rest assured that travel disruptions will be reduced over time.

Key Takeaways:

• M5 Southbound Closed: A section of the M5 in Devon was closed due to an overturned vehicle and fire, causing significant delays.
• Driver’s Condition: The driver sustained minor injuries, and emergency services quickly responded to the incident.
• Impact on Business and Travel: The road closure disrupted both business and tourist travel, especially for those heading to Devon and Cornwall.
• Quick Travel Tips: Travelers should check live traffic updates, consider alternative routes, and plan for additional travel time.
• Emergency Services: The situation was swiftly managed by emergency teams, with all lanes reopened by 9:50 AM BST.

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Tags: accident, devon, Exeter, M5, road closure

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