The A31 could remain closed for "a few days" after a major New Forest fire caused damage to the road and surrounding infrastructure.
Deputy Chief Fire Officer Shantha Dickinson said the closure was needed to allow emergency services to access the blaze, while repairs are also required.
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She said: "The A31 is closed. It probably will be for a few days.
"There are a few reasons for that - obviously, it was closed to enable emergency responder access.
"There’s actually been damage to the tarmac, the road surface and the fencing on either side to prevent the ponies from going on has also been damaged. So that needs to be repaired."
She urged motorists to avoid the area, while several New Forest car parks have also been closed.
Shantha added: "We’re obviously pushing out messages asking people to try and avoid the area as much as possible."
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