Severe thunderstorm warning issued for north-east Tasmania as firefighters battle spot fires

Power has been cut off across the north-east as a severe thunderstorm sweeps through the state.

Nearly 1,500 residents are experiencing power outages in Scottsdale and the surrounding area, with TasNetworks indicating that the cause is still under investigation.

The Bureau of Meteorology issued a severe thunderstorm and damaging winds warning for the region shortly before 5pm, following a day of warm weather.

“A trough is causing fast-moving, gusty thunderstorms this afternoon and evening,” the BOM say.

“Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds in the warning area over the next several hours.”

Scottsdale, Whitemark, Bridport, St Helens, Fingal and Scamander are all likely to be impacted.

The warning comes as firefighters battle several blazes in the area, including one at Derby, Banca and Talawa, which the TFS believe were caused by lightning strikes.

A TFS spokesperson said local brigades are now checking on every reported strike and said there is no threat to communities at this stage.

This warning comes after a similar one was issued in Melbourne earlier today, causing delays for numerous Tasmanian flights.

Earlier this morning, the Tasmania Fire Service reiterated a high fire danger warning for the state and imposed a temporary ban on issuing fire permits.