Acrid black smoke is blanketing parts of a north Tasmanian town as an uncontrolled bushfire burns through a vehicle wrecking yard.
The blaze at George Town started just after midday (AEDT) on Monday and quickly escalated with authorities issuing a watch-and-act alert to residents, and opening an evacuation centre.
Some roads have been closed by police as water bombing helicopters join the fight in which four aircraft and several ground tankers are involved.
"There may be acrid black smoke and ash from this fire visible around George Town due to vehicles being alight in the wrecking yard," the Tasmania Fire Service website warned.
People who suffer respiratory difficulties are being urged to consider leaving the area.
Police have opened an evacuation centre at George Town's memorial hall on Macquarie Street which will remain open for as long as the heightened alert is in place.
The TFS has specified there is no present threat to communities but added there may be ash and embers falling across the region.
"This fire may put George Town, North George Town, Tip Road and Alfred Street at high risk," the service said.
With a population of some 7000 people, George Town is located at the mouth of the Tamar River and the fire is burning on the eastern side.
Forecast variable winds are expected to mean smoke remains across George Town overnight.
"The (fire is) ... burning in an easterly direction through thick bush and gorse creating a significant smoke plume," the TFS said.
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