Crews tackle heathland fire that spread from van
A major fire broke out on the A31 in the New Forest after a van caught fire, spreading to nearby heathland. Emergency services closed the road and are managing traffic diversions while working to contain the blaze.
Why it matters
The incident caused significant travel disruption and poses a threat to the local ecosystem and wildlife in the New Forest.
Image source, Jehanna Stride Image caption, The fire created a smoke plume visible for miles
Firefighters have worked through the night after a van caught fire and the flames spread to heathland in the New Forest, creating a smoke plume visible for miles.
The fire broke out on the A31 near Ringwood, Hampshire, shortly after 17:20 BST on Sunday, forcing some motorists to abandon their vehicles .
Twenty-six fire crews alongside water carriers and specialist off-road units were sent to the scene as the flames quickly spread.
National Highways said the dual carriageway remained closed in both directions between the M27 at junction 2 for Ower and the A338 at Ringwood.
Image source, New Forest Police Image caption, The fire spread from the A31 into nearby heathland on Sunday evening
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