Severe delays are affecting the M42 motorway this evening after a multi-vehicle collision forced a full closure of the northbound carriageway.
Crash Details and Location
The incident, involving three cars, occurred shortly before 7:30pm on Monday, 19 January 2026. The collision took place on the M42 northbound between junction 1 for Bromsgrove and junction 2 for Alvechurch, close to the motorway's interchange with the M5.
Emergency services were immediately dispatched to the scene. National Highways confirmed that traffic was being held to allow crews to work safely and deal with the aftermath of the crash.
Travel Chaos and Official Advice
The closure has led to significant congestion and growing tailbacks on the approach to the affected section. National Highways West Midlands issued a statement via social media, advising motorists of the situation.
"Traffic has been stopped on the M42 northbound between J1 Bromsgrove and J2 Alvechurch due to a collision," the statement read. The authority appealed for drivers to "please be patient" and assured them that teams were working to "get you moving again soon."
Officials are strongly recommending that drivers planning to use this route find alternative paths for their journeys to avoid the area entirely.
Ongoing Situation and Updates
This remains a live incident, with recovery and investigation work ongoing. The full extent of any injuries is not yet clear. Commuters and travellers are advised to check for further updates from National Highways and local traffic news services before setting out.
The closure is causing major disruption on a key Midlands transport corridor, particularly for traffic heading north from the Bromsgrove and Worcestershire area.
