Updated – 4:43pm Saturday: The TFS has downgraded the warning to Watch and Act, warning people to prepare to leave.
“The fire is travelling towards Glen Dhu Road, Molesworth and expected to impact Collinsvale and Surrounding Areas by now,” the TFS said.
“The fire is expected to be difficult to control.”
“Embers, smoke, and ash may fall on Collinsvale and Surrounding Areas and threaten you and your home before the main fire.”
Earlier: Tasmania Fire Service has issued an emergency warning for residents near Glen Dhu Road in Molesworth, with an uncontrolled bushfire expected to put lives in danger and destroy homes.
The blaze is travelling towards Glen Dhu Road and surrounding areas south of New Norfolk, with thick smoke and ember showers creating dangerous conditions across the region.
“Spot fires may threaten your home before the main fire arrives,” the Tasmania Fire Service warned.
“Smoke and ash may make it difficult to see and breathe.”
Fire crews are attending the scene, but conditions remain changeable and residents are being urged to act immediately to survive.
The fire service says the safest option is to leave for a safer location now, but only if there’s a clear road to safety.
For those unable to safely evacuate, officials recommend seeking shelter in the nearest building and checking surroundings regularly. Residents should be prepared to extinguish any fires near buildings until the main blaze passes.
Large cleared areas like lawns, sports grounds, car parks or paddocks can also provide protection from fire and radiant heat.
“If you have a bushfire plan, use it now,” the warning states. Anyone currently outside the fire area has been advised not to attempt to return.
Residents are urged to visit tasalert.com for ongoing updates.
