A major bridge will be closed for most of today as preparation for major resurfacing works is carried out.
The M48 Severn Bridge will be shut in both directions until 8pm this evening, August 8, while a contraflow system is installed across both carriageways.
The closure, announced by the Severn Bridges traffic service, is part of long-term resurfacing trials by National Highways.
During the closure, drivers will be diverted via the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge.
A spokesperson for The Severn Bridges said: " M48 Severn Bridge closed 8pm tonight, August 7, to 8pm tomorrow, August 8, for contraflow setup ahead of resurfacing works.
"From 8pm Sat 8 Aug to 8pm Fri 18 Sept, one lane will be open in each direction in contraflow.
"Plan ahead and allow extra time".
Following the 24-hour closure, a temporary contraflow will remain in place from Sunday, August 9 until September 18.
During this period, a single narrow lane - just three metres wide - will operate in each direction on the eastbound carriageway.
A 30mph speed limit and average speed cameras will be introduced, and the westbound footpath will be closed. The eastbound footpath will remain open.
Access to and from Chepstow will be maintained throughout the works.
National Highways said the scheme has been scheduled for summer, when traffic volumes are usually lower, to help minimise disruption, as "the bridges are a key economic link between England and Wales".
The resurfacing work forms part of ongoing maintenance required to keep the bridge safe and operational.
Drivers are being urged to plan their journeys in advance and allow extra time while the closure and contraflow are in place.
Motorists travelling between Wales and England are advised to use the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge during the closure period to avoid delays.
A spokesperson for National Highways explained: "The original bridge design and construction in the 1960s featured a 35mm surface that was laid by hand.
"This was replaced between 1989 and 1991 with the same thickness of material.
"Any new surfacing needs to be laid at the same thickness of just 35mm, compared to 40mm+ on more modern bridge structures.
"This is to ensure the weight across the structure is not increased above that for which it was designed.
"As part of the long-term maintenance of the bridge, we’re trialing resurfacing a 200-metre section of the bridge westbound to ensure that the new road surfacing can be laid thin enough using a machine.
"Once the trial surface has been laid, regular inspections will take place to ensure the surface remains in sound condition.
"If the trial is successful, we’ll be fully resurfacing both carriageways in 2027 / 2028".
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