A large plume of smoke visible across Launceston is no cause for concern, authorities say.
The fuel reduction burn near Ravenswood was registered with the Tasmania Fire Service as being ignited at 10am on Wednesday and may last several days, the TFS website says.
The burn comes as fire permits are lifted in all municipalities, except King Island, a decision Acting Chief Officer Jeremy Smith said was made based on “physical science” and the current fire conditions across the state.
“While the latest Soil Dryness Index (SDI) and Drought Factor (DF) both remain relatively high in some areas of the state for this time of year, short to medium term forecasts are indicating both these indicators will gradually reduce through April,” he said.
“This, in conjunction with shorter daylight hours, lower daytime and overnight temperatures and increasing overnight dew being experienced across the state, all associated fire risks will significantly lessen.”
While permits have been lifted, landowners should continue to monitor localised conditions to ensure their fires can be controlled.
“Landowners who plan on conducting burns on their property should be mindful of the weather, be well equipped and capable and to make sure it is done in consultation with the owners of neighbouring properties,” Smith said.
“Engagement with neighbours in the vicinity of any planned burning is critical to ensure smoke will not adversely affect farming or harvesting operations, with emphasis on the wine industry which is particularly vulnerable to smoke at this time of year.”
1,184 permits had been issued during the 2023/24 fire permit period, 216 more than 2022/23.
Smith said the fire permit system continues to be a vital bushfire management tool that maximises fire safety for the Tasmanian community.
“We continue to encourage anyone lighting fires to register their burn on the free call 1800 000 699 number,” he said.
