UK · 16 August 2026

New Forest wildfire continues for eighth day as A31 remains closed

Firefighters are still tackling hot spots in the New Forest wildfire, which began on 9 August when a van caught fire. The fire has impacted approximately 1.6 sq km of heathland, with 169 fire appliances from 93 stations responding. The A31, a key route between Southampton and Bournemouth, will stay shut until at least Thursday.

By BriefTea Editorial · 16 August 2026 at 10:21

Reported by BBC · How we write briefs

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