Drivers in North Yorkshire are facing significant disruption this morning after the A19 was closed in both directions near Northallerton. Police shut the major north-south route following reports of a naked man in the area, and officers are on scene working to resolve the situation safely.
The A19 is one of the region’s busiest trunk roads, carrying heavy commuter and freight traffic between Teesside, Thirsk, and York. A full closure in both directions means lengthy tailbacks are likely to build quickly, and surrounding local roads through Northallerton, Borrowby, and Osmotherley may see a surge of diverted traffic.
What readers might notice
Expect stationary or very slow traffic on the A19 approaches, congestion on the A168 and other nearby routes as drivers seek alternatives, and a visible police presence including possible air support. Bus services using the corridor may be delayed or diverted.
Anyone planning to travel between the Teesside area and York or the A1(M) this morning should check traffic updates before setting off and allow substantial extra time.
Preparedness pointers:
1. Avoid the A19 near Northallerton entirely if possible and use the A1(M) or A167 as alternatives, but expect those routes to be busier than usual.
2. If you are already stuck in the queue, stay in your vehicle unless instructed otherwise by police, keep warm clothing and water handy, and keep your fuel or battery level in mind.
3. Do not approach or film anyone in distress at the scene; follow directions from officers and road crews, and report any concerns to police.
Closures of this kind for a police-led incident are typically resolved within a few hours, but drivers should assume disruption could continue into the next travel period until officially confirmed reopened.
Traffic and incident information for this alert comes from National Highways and North Yorkshire Police, with weather context where relevant from the Met Office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the A19 closed near Northallerton?
Police closed the road in both directions following reports of a naked man near the carriageway. Full closures like this are standard procedure to keep the individual, officers, and drivers safe while the incident is resolved.
How long will the closure last?
There is no confirmed reopening time yet. Police incidents of this kind often resolve within a few hours, but check National Highways updates before travelling.
What is the best alternative route?
The A1(M) is the main alternative for north-south travel, and the A167 can serve local journeys. Expect heavier traffic than usual on both while the A19 remains shut.
I'm already stuck in the tailback – what should I do?
Stay in your vehicle, keep your engine use moderate to preserve fuel, and follow any instructions from police or traffic officers. Keep an eye on live traffic updates for news of the reopening.
Keep tracking this:
Source: The Northern Echo
Related Reading
Sky & Solar Conditions at the Time
Moon: New Moon (2% illuminated), in Libra.
Notable planetary angles: Venus square Mars (91°), Mercury conjunct Venus (3°).
Concurrent space weather: planetary Kp index 4.0; strongest recent solar flare: M1.4-class.
This is a factual snapshot, not a claim of cause and effect – researchers are divided on whether lunar, planetary or solar factors influence seismic or weather activity. It’s included so readers can track the pattern for themselves over time.
