Firefighters are battling two large blazes in Launceston’s northern suburbs this afternoon.
A “vegetation fire” has forced the closure of Calvary Road in Mowbray, with helicopters deployed to waterbomb the flames.
Photos from the scene show what appears to be a timber yard burning, with thick black smoke billowing into the sky.
Tasmania Fire Service crews are working to contain the blaze and police are urging motorists to avoid the area.
Meanwhile, a smoke alert has been issued for Hargrave Crescent in the nearby suburb of Mayfield.
Authorities have warned residents around Treherne Street to remain vigilant due to smoke from a bushfire.
“Houses were at risk,” said one resident, who captured footage of thick smoke blanketing their property.
The Tasmania Fire Service says the fire poses “no threat to communities”, but warn “smoke, ash and embers” may be visible.
More to come…
