Firefighters are working to contain several bushfires across southern Tasmania as damaging winds of up to 115km/h batter the state.
The Tasmania Fire Service is responding to active fires at Crawlers Gully near Nugent, Ross, Levendale and Stonehenge, with a bushfire advice warning in place for the Nugent area.
Deputy Regional Chief Scott Vinen said the conditions were making firefighting extremely difficult.
“A severe weather warning for damaging winds remains in place across much of Tasmania,” he said.
“These conditions may limit aerial firefighting operations and make ground containment more difficult.”
The Bureau of Meteorology has warned that elevated terrain and exposed southern areas will experience winds averaging 65 to 75km/h, with peak gusts around 115km/h from late morning.
The rest of the state, including Hobart, can expect winds averaging 55 to 65km/h, with gusts up to 100km/h during the afternoon.
Vinen said the terrain and weather were proving tough, with the fire danger rating high across affected areas.
“Our crews are focused on getting these fires under control and protecting the community,” he said.
“While there is no immediate threat to communities, containment remains our top priority.”
Several fires have already been successfully contained and are now under patrol, including at Bream Creek, Forcett, Levendale and another near Nugent.
The severe weather follows a blustery 24 hours that saw Maatsuyker Island record gusts of 135km/h, Scotts Peak hit 122km/h and Mount Wellington reach 120km/h.
Winds are expected to ease below warning thresholds by this evening, with much calmer conditions forecast for Tuesday.
“We ask residents to remain vigilant and informed,” Vinen said.
“Even if a fire is not currently threatening homes, conditions can change quickly.”
