A vehicle fire on the eastbound A31 near Ringwood in Hampshire spread from the vehicle to the central reservation and into nearby heathland, prompting a large emergency response.

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service deployed 26 fire engines, four water carriers, six off‑road vehicles and several command vehicles, with support from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service.

More than 160 emergency calls were logged reporting a vehicle on fire, underscoring the scale and urgency.

Officials urged the public to monitor updates, follow diversions, and allow extra travel time as the situation developed.

In gridlock, some motorists removed parts of central barriers to turn around.

Police instructed drivers to move to the central reservation for safety as flames reached surrounding vegetation, warning that unattended vehicles could explode.

The A31 was closed between Picket Post and the M27 junction two, with advice for motorists to avoid the area and follow diversions to let crews work safely.

Motorists were advised to avoid the area and follow diversion signs while the closure remained in place.

The closure and diversions were maintained to enable emergency crews to operate safely.

Witnesses described rapid escalation, panicked drivers, and conflicting guidance as people tried to exit or stay in vehicles.

Officials urged drivers to avoid the area where possible until the situation is resolved.

Firefighters confirmed the fire spread to the central reservation and nearby heathland, with the driver believed to have escaped.