Updated 12am, Wednesday: The TFS says lives are in danger and homes may be destroyed in Stieglitz near St Helens, issuing an urgent warning to “leave now”.
A Bushfire emergency warning was issued for the coastal community just after midnight as a fire at Dianas Basin moves towards Peron Street and surrounding areas.
Authorities warn the rapidly advancing blaze is likely to create dangerous conditions with thick smoke, ember attacks and potential spot fires that could threaten properties ahead of the main fire front.
“You need to act now to survive,” a TFS spokesperson said.
“The safest way to survive is to go to a safer location now.”
An evacuation centre has been established at St Helens Multi-purpose Stadium on Tully Street for those unable to stay with family or friends. The TFS say that residents should only travel if it is safe to do so.
For those unable to safely evacuate, the TFS advises seeking shelter in the nearest building, monitoring surroundings closely and extinguishing any nearby fires until the main fire passes.
The Stieglitz Boat Ramp has been designated as a place of last resort for those caught in the area with no other options.
Updated 8:30pm, Tuesday: The Tasmania Fire Service has expanded its emergency warning to include Parkside and Parnella near St Helens as an uncontrolled bushfire continues to threaten the east coast.
The blaze, which originated at Dianas Basin, is now moving towards the coastal communities.
Residents are being urged to leave if it is safe to do so.
“If you have a bushfire plan, use it now,” the TFS said. “The safest way to survive is to go to a safer location now.”
Thick smoke, showers of embers and spot fires may threaten homes before the main fire front arrives.
Tasmania Fire Service, Parks and Wildlife Service and Sustainable Timber Tasmania crews are on scene, with conditions described as changeable.
An evacuation centre has been established at the St Helens Multi-Purpose Stadium at 117 Tully Street.
The Stieglitz Boat Ramp Park has been designated as a nearby safer place for those unable to leave the area.
A smoke alert has also been issued for St Helens, Stieglitz and Akaroa.
People with respiratory or heart conditions are advised to follow their personal health plans.
Motorists in the area should use headlights, reduce speed and be aware of emergency vehicles.
Residents who have left the area are advised not to return. For updates, visit tasalert.com.
Earlier 4:55pm, Tuesday: The Tasmania Fire Service issued an emergency warning for Stieglitz as the bushfire moved towards areas between Aerodrome Road and Jetty Road.
“The safest way to survive is to go to a safer location now,” a TFS spokesperson said. “If you have a bushfire plan, use it now.”
Fire crews attended but the blaze remained uncontrolled.
A Watch and Act alert was in place for the nearby Dianas Basin area.
Initial: Residents of Dianas Basin were urged to prepare to leave as the bushfire approached.
The TFS said the blaze was expected to impact the area by 2pm and would be difficult to control.
“Take action now to protect yourself, your family, and your home,” a spokesperson said. “If you have a bushfire plan, use it now.”
Fire crews are currently attending the scene, but the blaze remains uncontrolled with thick smoke, ember attacks and difficult breathing conditions expected.
