Emergency warning issued for St Helens plantation fire

The fuel reduction burn on Argonaut Road near Launceston Creek has been burning since Tuesday, and the warning has been issued for people in the St Helens - Stonyford Track area.

An evacuation centre has been established at St Helens Football Club. St Helens mountain bike trails have been closed, along with the closure of Argonaut Road and Heritage Road.

The warning from the TFS advises the fire is difficult to control.

IN OTHER NEWS:

"Smoke and ash will make it difficult to see and breathe," the warning reads.

"If your home is well prepared for high risk fires and you can actively defend it, it should provide shelter.

"If your home is unprepared go to a safer location now only if the path is clear."

The area is experiencing strong northwesterly winds between 35 and 50 kilometres per hours, according to the Bureau of Meteorology, and warm and dry conditions with rain expected this evening.

Smoke and ash could be visible around St Helens, Stieglitz and Akaroa areas.

The size of the fire is yet to be confirmed.

The TFS has mobilised five tankers and a personnel carrier.

The fire was being managed by Sustainable Timber Tasmania, according to the TFS.

More information can be found at fire.tas.gov.au