Islanders are being urged to close their windows and doors as smoke from a large heath fire in the New Forest spreads across the Isle of Wight.
The smell of smoke was initially reported in areas such as Ventnor and Shanklin late last night (Sunday), but has since spread northwards following a change in wind direction.
Households in areas including Ryde, Newport and Cowes – in fact Island-wide – are now waking up to a strong smell of burning this morning (Monday), with smoke from the New Forest having travelled across the Solent.
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service says its Control Room has received a large number of calls about the smoke, which originates from a significant heathland fire beside the A31.
Crews from across Hampshire, supported by Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, are currently attending the incident. A total of 26 fire engines, 4 water carriers, 6 off-road vehicles and multiple command vehicles are on scene.
The fire service has said:
“Our Control Room are still receiving a large number of calls reporting smoke from the A31 fire, spreading to areas across both sides of the Solent – if you are affected, please close your doors and windows.
“We ask that you first check the smell of smoke in your area isn’t caused by a separate fire, and if so, please dial 999.”
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The blaze began when a vehicle caught fire on the eastbound A31 at around 17:24 yesterday, before spreading into the central reservation and nearby heathland.
Firefighters are expected to remain at the scene for the foreseeable future.
