Homes threated by intense bushfire on Longford farms

UPDATE: A total of 13ha was burned in a fire on the southern end of Longford yesterday and is now under control.

The fire was closely monitored up until midnight and 10 local volunteer fire brigades will continue to monitor trees that are still burning and do any cleanup required today.

Investigations today will try to determine the cause of the blaze.

PREVIOUSLY:

An uncontrolled blaze is burning at Longford, with the Tasmania Fire Service downgrading the status to a Watch And Act.

The bushfire is in what the locals know as Walker’s Bush, now part of two small farms owned by John Lord and Jamie Goss.

Believed to be the last stand of dry sclerophyll bush in the midlands, it had previously been used by beekeeper Julian Wolfhagen for his hives.

The fire has impacted Cotton Street and is travelling towards Cressy Road and Haslewood Road, driven by westerly winds.

The TFS said the fire could endanger lives and destroy nearby homes.

“There is expected to be thick smoke and showers of embers, which may cause fires all around you.

“Spot fires may threaten your home before the main fire arrives.

“Smoke and ash may make it difficult to see and breathe.”

The TFS is on-site battling the blaze with multiple local fire brigades and two water-bombing helicopters.

Longford motorists are advised that several roads are currently closed: Cressy Road is closed between Western Street and Haslewood Road. Cotton Street is closed. Haslewood Road is closed.

If you live in the area of the fire, please stay informed and monitor conditions locally by listening to ABC radio or visiting tasalert.com