More than 120 firefighters are battling a major New Forest fire in Hampshire, England, after a lorry fire on the A31 spread into surrounding protected heathland near Ringwood.
The fire began on Sunday evening when a lorry caught fire on the eastbound A31. Flames quickly spread from the central reservation into nearby vegetation, prompting a major emergency response as firefighters worked to prevent the blaze from advancing further across the New Forest.
Crews from Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire were deployed to tackle the fire. At the height of the response, 26 fire engines, water carriers, off-road vehicles and specialist command units were involved. Firefighters have continued working in difficult conditions as they deal with dry vegetation and challenging heathland terrain.
The A31 has been closed in both directions because of the fire and damage caused to the road. National Highways has reported damage to the road surface and safety barriers, as well as an oil spill from the burned-out vehicle. Drivers have been warned to avoid the area and follow designated diversion routes.
Firefighters are using specialist off-road vehicles and additional water resources to reach areas of the fire that are difficult to access. Crews are also using water from Hightown Lake near Ringwood as they continue efforts to control the blaze and prevent further spread.
Smoke from the fire has been visible across a wide area, with reports of smoke being seen from locations on both sides of the Solent. Although visibility has improved, some smoke remains locally while firefighting operations continue.
Authorities have said there is currently no need to evacuate nearby properties. However, residents could be contacted directly if conditions change and the fire begins threatening homes or other buildings.
The blaze is also causing concern because it is burning within internationally protected New Forest heathland. The area provides habitat for rare wildlife and plant species, meaning the fire could have a significant environmental impact.
Fire crews are expected to remain at the scene for an extended period while they extinguish hotspots and monitor the perimeter. The circumstances surrounding the original lorry fire remain under investigation.
Motorists travelling between Southampton, Ringwood and Bournemouth are being urged to avoid the affected section of the A31 and allow additional time for alternative routes.