Updated – Tuesday 5:45pm: An emergency bushfire warning for Longford has been downgraded to watch and act, with residents near Cotton Street no longer told it’s too late to evacuate.
The Tasmania Fire Service issued the revised alert this afternoon for the uncontained blaze threatening homes around Cotton Street, Cressy Road, Haslewood Street and Marlborough Street.
“Residents should monitor conditions as they are changing,” the fire service said.
The downgrade comes after authorities earlier warned residents it was too late to leave as the fire bore down on the northern Tasmania town.
Embers, smoke and ash may still fall across the area and threaten homes before the main fire arrives. Smoke and ash may make it difficult to see and breathe.
Tasmania Fire Service crews remain on scene with conditions expected to stay changeable.
TFS Deputy Regional Chief Steven Richardson said firefighters had responded quickly to the incident.
“We have deployed a significant number of resources including trucks and helicopters and we are working with those residents in the area whose properties may be at risk,” he said.
Earlier: The Tasmania Fire Service has issued a sudden emergency warning for residents near Cotton Street and Cressy Road in Longford, telling them it is too late to evacuate as an uncontrolled bushfire bears down on homes.
The fire is travelling towards Cotton Street, Cressy Road, Haslewood Road and surrounding areas and is expected to threaten lives and destroy homes.
“You are in danger and need to act immediately to survive,” the Tasmania Fire Service said.
“It is too late to leave. Fire is threatening evacuation routes and leaving now will put your life in danger.”
Residents have been told to shelter in solid buildings before the fire arrives, with thick smoke and ember showers creating dangerous conditions across the area.
The fire service warned spot fires could threaten homes before the main blaze reaches properties, while smoke and ash may make it difficult to see and breathe.
Tasmania Fire Service crews are attending the scene, but conditions are expected to remain changeable.
Residents still in the area have been advised to shelter in rooms away from the approaching fire that have water access and clear exits.
“Close all doors and windows and turn off air conditioners, keep water running if possible,” authorities said.
“Bring pets indoors and restrain them.”
People outside the area have been warned not to return while the emergency unfolds.
Tasmania Police have asked motorists to avoid Cotton Street and Cressy Road while fire crews respond to the blaze.
Those with medical conditions have been advised to have personal plans for avoiding smoke exposure and managing their health during the emergency.
Anyone in immediate danger should call triple zero.
