The A14 is closed in both directions following a serious crash involving a lorry and a car near the Orwell Bridge, leading to long delays for motorists.
Why it matters: This incident has created severe traffic congestion affecting drivers commuting between Suffolk and Essex. With the Orwell Bridge closed, alternative routes are also impacted.
The A14 closure has caused delays of up to 50 minutes, with congestion stretching four miles.
Emergency services were called to the scene at approximately 09:00 BST on Monday, responding to a three-vehicle crash.
Both the westbound and eastbound carriageways are closed; the westbound closure extends between junctions 56 (Wherstead) and 58 (Seven Hills Interchange).
The eastbound route is blocked between the on-slip and off-slip at Seven Hills, compounding the traffic issues.
Driving the news: The accident involved a lorry and a car, prompting a swift response from emergency services, including Suffolk Police and Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service.
Firefighters helped extricate a male driver from the lorry, with two female casualties from another vehicle already receiving care from the ambulance service.
Officers from Suffolk Police are currently managing the scene, coordinating the response efforts.
Traffic cameras show huge queues forming in both directions, indicating the scale of the disruption.
State of play: As cleanup and investigation efforts continue, authorities warn that delays will persist throughout the day.
National Highways has advised drivers to avoid the area if possible and to allow extra time for their journeys.
Congestion is also affecting the A12 at Copdock, creating additional traffic challenges.
Drivers are encouraged to check traffic updates regularly as conditions may change.
The big picture: The A14 serves as a major route for commuters and commercial traffic in the region, making any closure particularly impactful.
This incident highlights the vulnerability of key transport routes to accidents, which can lead to widespread delays.
With the bridge closed in both directions, many drivers are being forced to seek alternative routes, increasing travel times significantly.
Authorities are working diligently to clear the scene and restore normal traffic flow as quickly as possible.
What they're saying: Officials are urging caution among drivers as they navigate the affected areas.
A spokesperson for National Highways stated, "Suffolk Police lead the response to the incident and have closed the carriageway to allow emergency services to work at the scene."
They added, "Delays are likely on the approach to the closure and diversion routes."
Local authorities are appealing to the public to remain patient as they work through the aftermath of the crash.
By the numbers: The impact of the crash can be quantified in terms of delays and congestion.
Drivers are facing delays of up to 50 minutes as a result of the closure.
Traffic is backed up for approximately four miles due to the incident.
Emergency services were on site within minutes, with the first call reported at 09:00 BST.
What's next: As investigations continue, authorities are focused on clearing the scene and reopening the A14.
Motorists are advised to stay updated on traffic conditions and to plan their routes accordingly.
Cleanup efforts are expected to take several hours, with the potential for extended delays throughout the day.
Public communication will be key in keeping drivers informed about the status of the road and any necessary detours.