A section of the A31 near Ringwood has reopened.

The eastbound carriageway was closed at about 4.40am after a woman fell from a bridge near Poulner. Police believe she may have been struck by oncoming traffic.

Congestion spread through the area, with tailbacks to the Ashley Roundabout, and heavy traffic as far as the New Forest and parts of East Dorset following the closure of the A31 at its junctions with the A338 and A348.

The woman who died was seen climbing over bridge railings and fell on to the eastbound carriageway. Police believe she was hit by oncoming traffic.

Officers were called to the scene at 4.39am.

Inspector Kirsty Shannon, from Totton Roads Policing Unit, appealed for anyone who believes they know who the victim is to contact the police.

“This appears to be a very tragic incident, and it is important for us to swiftly identify this lady so that we can find her next of kin as quickly as possible,” said Insp Shannon.

Police said shortly before 5pm that they believe they have identified the woman and are trying to contact her relatives this evening.

The woman is described as white, and was wearing pyjamas and slippers, a white v-neck jumper with a Pringle type pattern, and a blue jumper. Her age is not known.

Police are working to establish the woman’s identity and say it is probable that she was known in the area.

The road was closed while officers investigated the incident.

Motorists bound for the M27 were diverted via the village of Brook to junction one of the M27.

One driver said traffic had queued back to Ferndown in the eastbound carriageway, and about five miles northbound on the A338.

Anyone with information should call Hampshire Constabulary by dialling 101.

The incident is called Operation Broxton.