The A31 will remain closed for at least another 48 hours during the New Forest fire response.
Firefighters are entering a third night at the scene, supported by partner organisations as they continue working to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading further across the surrounding area.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service said the road closures are expected to stay in place while emergency teams respond to what it described as a “complex and ongoing incident”.
The restrictions are needed to keep people safe and allow fire crews and other responders to reach the scene, while National Highways has assessed the damage caused to the road.
Significant repairs are required to the surface, road safety barrier and boundary fencing, but the work can only begin once conditions are considered safe enough for teams to start.
The fire service thanked the community for its “patience, understanding and support” and asked people to avoid locations affected by closures, restrictions or emergency operations while the response continues.
Photo from Verwood Fire Station
