A “devastating” wildfire in the New Forest, in Hampshire, is now under control, but firefighters say they will still be working for several days to come.
The wildfire began when a van caught fire on the A31 near Bratley Wood shortly after 17:20 BST on Sunday, forcing motorists to abandon more than 20 vehicles.
The area hit by the fire is protected heathland and home to a number of rare species, the New Forest National Park Authority said.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service on Monday evening asked the public to avoid the area and said it was working “into the night”. National Highways said the A31 dual carriageway through the New Forest would remain closed until further notice.
“We expect to have a significant presence for several days, as we work to protect this beautiful part of the New Forest,” said the fire service.
Aerial footage of scorched vegetation showed how the fire funnelled outwards in a south-easterly direction as the wind fanned the flames.
Smoke from the blaze could be seen drifting across both sides of the Solent, prompting fire to urge people to keep doors and windows shut.
New Forest National Park Authority warned the impact on the forest ecosystem and rare species would be severe.
