Severe traffic disruption was reported across the A3(M) and surrounding areas, including Purbrook, after a four-car collision sparked vehicle fires on the southbound carriageway near Waterlooville on the morning of May 7.
Emergency services were called to the scene shortly after 7:40am following reports of a serious multi-vehicle crash near Junction 5 for Havant. According to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, two vehicles caught fire as a result of the collision. Fire crews from Cosham and Havant quickly responded and successfully extinguished the fires using hose reel jets and firefighting equipment.
Although the incident appeared dramatic, authorities confirmed there were no reports of injuries.
The motorway was closed southbound for at least two hours while firefighters made the area safe and police managed traffic. During the closure, motorists were urged to avoid the area and expect major delays.
Traffic monitoring services reported severe congestion, with queues stretching back for miles. Drivers faced delays of up to 47 minutes, with average speeds dropping to around 5mph. Gridlock spread beyond the motorway as drivers sought alternative routes, causing significant tailbacks through Waterlooville, Horndean, and Purbrook. London Road became heavily congested as diverted traffic attempted to reach Portsmouth.
National Highways later confirmed that clean-up work began mid-morning once the fires were extinguished and damaged vehicles were removed. By late morning, the southbound carriageway reopened, though residual delays continued as traffic gradually returned to normal.
Authorities advised drivers to allow extra travel time while congestion cleared following the incident.
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