Emergency teams are currently managing a significant blaze that forced the closure of the A31 in Hampshire. The incident began as a vehicle fire and subsequently moved into the central reservation and surrounding heathland within the New Forest.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service reported that 26 fire appliances were dispatched to the site near Ringwood on Sunday evening. Authorities were alerted to the situation around 17:20 BST, receiving over 160 emergency calls. Assistance was provided by crews from Dorset and Wiltshire, alongside specialized equipment including four water carriers, six off-road vehicles, and various command units.
The A31 remains shut in both directions between Picket Post and the M27 junction two. Drivers are urged to seek different routes while crews work to contain the flames.
