Tasmania bushfire: Watch and act alert issued for Lefroy as blaze grows
A massive bushfire has torn through 660 hectares of dense Tasmanian bushland, forcing authorities to put north-east Tasmanian communities on high alert.
Communities in Tasmania’s north-east are being urged to remain on high alert as firefighters battle challenging conditions for a difficult to control blaze.
A bushfire has hit dense bushland in the Lefroy area, triggering a watch and act alert for the area on Sunday afternoon.
The community was urged to monitor conditions as they were changing.
Curries River Reservoir, Lefroy and Beechford Rd may experience ember, smoke and ash — which could threaten people and infrastructure before the main fire strikes.
“Take action to protect yourself, your family, and your home,” TFS said.
“If you have a made a bushfire plan, check it now.”
A bushfire smoke alert has also been issued for George Town and surrounds to avoid smoke.
The blaze was first reported at 1pm on Saturday.
Providing an update before the watch and act alert was renewed, TFS incident controller Paul Beechley said a coordinated effort between Tasmania Fire Service, Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service, and Sustainable Timbers Tasmania.
“The fire has burnt approximately 660 hectares, and there are several firefighting appliances currently being used including fire trucks, five aircraft and machinery,” he said.
“Firefighting crews have worked through the night and are continuing to work to contain the fire today. To date, no structures have been lost but as usual, resources will be positioned to protect assets in the area. “
With expected changeable weather, Mr Beechy urged residents to stay informed and be ready if the fire threat changes.
He said it was not known at this stage how the bushfire started.
Elsewhere, a smoke alert is also issued for Risdon Vale residents due to a separate bushfire at Grasstree Hill in the state’s south.
