UPDATE: 4 1/2 EB backup at Bay Bridge, another 2.6-mile backup at Severn River. Crash + disabled vehicles + commuters competing with beachgoers. Almost a perfect storm.Go north if you can!

This just arrived from the Maryland Transportation Authority:

EXPECT MAJOR EASTBOUND DELAYS THROUGHOUT THE EVENING AT THE BAY BRIDGE

Due to an earlier six-vehicle accident, numerous disabled vehicles and growing afternoon traffic volumes, motorists should expect major eastbound delays throughout the evening at the Bay Bridge.

Currently, Bay Bridge delays stretch 4.5 miles to Ritchie Highway.  Severn River Bridge delays stretch 5.3 miles to I-97.

If at all possible, please attempt to adjust your travel arrangements and leave later this evening.  Prior to traveling, call 1-877-BAYSPAN (1-877-229-7726) for 24/7 bridge traffic conditions or visit www.baybridge.com to view traffic cameras at the bridge.  For traffic information statewide, visit traffic.maryland.gov.

Travelers residing north of Baltimore whose destinations are Maryland and Delaware beach resort areas may wish to take northbound I-95 to DE 1 south. Motorists should be aware of a reconstruction project at the I-95 toll plaza in Newark, De. For information, visit the Delaware Department of Transportation's interactive map at http://www.deldot.gov/public.ejs?command=PublicLocatableMap.

You can bypass the Delaware Toll Plaza by getting off I-95 on MD 272 and bearing right to U.S. 40, go east on 40 to Wrangle Hill Road, take a right and it will lead you to DE1.