West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said it was called to reports of a heavy goods vehicle on fire on the A23, at 5.30pm on Sunday (September 27).
Four fire engines and a water carrier were sent to the scene.
A fire service spokesperson said: “Upon arrival firefighters wearing breathing apparatus quickly got to work extinguishing the fire.”
The southbound road was closed between Handcross and Slaugham while crews responded. The northbound carriageway remained open.
At the time, the spokesperson warned: “The A23 southbound remains closed at this time and is likely to remain so for some time. The northbound carriageway remains open. Drivers are encouraged to avoid the area.”
Sussex Police also issued a statement.
A social media post, at 8pm, read: “We currently have a full closure on a section of the A23 southbound following an earlier lorry fire.
“Emergency services were called to the incident near Warninglid around 5.30pm today.
“While the fire has since been extinguished, it is paramount that we ensure the road surface is safe for all road users. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we support the Highways agency at the scene.
“The southbound carriageway is currently closed between Junction 11 and Warninglid; the northbound carriageway remains open as usual.
“Please seek alternative routes where possible.”
AA Traffic News reported queues southbound between the B2110 and the B2115 junction with Staplefield Lane. Delays of around an hour were reported on that stretch, with a further ten minutes of delays on the southbound M23 between junctions 10A and 11.
Sussex Traffic Watch confirmed, just after 6am on Monday, that the A23 had reopened southbound.
9. Heavy good vehicle catches fire on West Sussex A-road
The A23 has reopened between Handcross and Bolney following a lorry fire. Photo: Eddie Mitchell
10. Heavy good vehicle catches fire on West Sussex A-road
The A23 has reopened between Handcross and Bolney following a lorry fire. Photo: Eddie Mitchell