The A31 near Ringwood remains closed in both directions as firefighters continue to tackle a large heathland fire that began after a vehicle caught alight.
Emergency services have been working tirelessly to contain the blaze, which has affected around 1.6 square kilometres of countryside.
Crews from Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire, supported by teams from across the country, are using fire engines, off-road vehicles and a high-volume pump system to maintain a steady water supply in challenging conditions.
Deputy Chief Fire Officer Shantha Dickinson said firefighters are working tirelessly to prevent the fire from spreading further, despite difficult terrain, hot weather and changing wind directions.
The incident has caused significant disruption to local travel, with hoses laid across some access routes to homes and the A31 closed to all traffic.
Residents and motorists are being asked to avoid the area and follow official advice while the operation continues.
Firefighters expect to remain on scene for several more days and are urging the public not to use disposable barbecues, light campfires or discard cigarettes in the countryside during the hot, dry weather.



