Severe storm warning for parts of Tasmania

A strong cold front with damaging winds is approaching Tasmania's northwest coast prompting a severe storm warning from authorities.

A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for northwest Tasmania with a strong cold front bringing damaging, squally winds.

A fast moving cold front is approaching the west and northwest coasts from about 10.30pm on Saturday night, which is likely to bring hours of damaging winds, the Bureau of Meteorology says.

The SES has units on standby and people in Devonport, Burnie, Currie, Smithton, Strahan and Queenstown are advised to secure loose items and seek shelter.