The M5 East has reopened in both directions after a "major power failure" forced it to close, causing "extensive delays" for commuters, with part of the light rail network also shut down.

The motorway was closed between Mascot and Beverly Hills for more than two hours, with motorists advised to avoid the area or catch the train. Westbound lanes reopened at about 6.15pm, with eastbound lanes opening shortly afterwards.

The outage began just before 4pm, Ausgrid said, leaving 60,000 homes and businesses without power and necessitating the closure of major roads.

Cars were diverted from the M5 at General Holmes Drive and King Georges Road, instead directed through General Holmes Drive, Bestic Street, West Botany Street, Forest Road, Stoney Creek Road and King Georges Road.