Tasmanian firefighters are tackling multiple bushfires after more than a thousand lightning strikes hit the state in the past 24 hours.
Since 1pm on Monday, 4,770 dry lightning strikes were recorded near or over Tasmania.
Deputy State Fire Commander Mark Dobson said 1,227 strikes hit the ground, primarily on the West Coast, igniting several fires.
“While no communities are currently at risk of impact from these fires, we’re urging the community to remain vigilant and monitor local conditions,” he said.
“The Bureau of Meteorology has predicted thunderstorms across the West Coast, East Coast and Midlands this afternoon and early evening, with the potential for further lightning strikes.”
Aerial crews are currently flying over the West Coast to assess the situation, map out the fires and prioritise their response.
Dobson said many of the fires are burning in remote areas, but warnings have been issued for a blaze near Zeehan and an area near Corinna.
“If you are aware of lightning strikes in the local area and you see smoke or fire, please report to Tasmania Fire Service immediately on Triple Zero,” Dobson said.
