More than 120 firefighters are battling a major heathland wildfire in England’s New Forest National Park that has burned an area of about 1 square kilometer, equivalent to roughly 140 football pitches, authorities said Monday.
The fire broke out Sunday afternoon after a van caught fire on the A31, a major road crossing the New Forest in southern England. The flames then spread to nearby heathland, threatening one of the country’s important wildlife habitats.
Forestry England said the blaze is now under control but warned that firefighting efforts could continue for several days. It also urged the public to avoid the affected area.
The wildfire caused major disruption on the A31, with police reporting that 23 motorists had to abandon their vehicles as the flames spread. One woman said she feared the fire could reach her family’s car.
National Highways said the road had sustained significant damage and that there was currently no indication of when the A31 would reopen.
The closure has also caused heavy congestion on alternative routes. Local roads have become increasingly difficult to use, with reports of motorists attempting to move caravans and even a speedboat through narrow lanes.
The wildfire comes as heat-health alerts across England have been raised ahead of a week of high temperatures. Temperatures in southeastern England are forecast to reach 36C (96.8F) on Thursday.
Several areas are expected to move to amber heat-health alerts, one level below the highest category, from Tuesday as the heat wave intensifies. The Met Office is also assessing whether extreme heat warnings may be required.
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