Police are investigating a significant bushfire at Ravenswood overnight.
Emergency services were called to Ravenswood Reserve about 3.20pm yesterday after reports a fire was burning out of control.
A Watch and Act warning was issued, and remained in place until this morning when the fire was downgraded to Advice level.
Tasmania Fire Service District Officer, Operations Rick Mahnken said while the fire was being contained, 184 hectares had been burnt as of 12.30pm today.
“Crews are expected to remain on the ground for several days, with fire weather forecast to be moderate today, and high across the weekend,” he said.
“No structures or critical assets have been impacted by the fire, and backburning operations will commence today which may cause smoke in the area.”
A smoke alert remains active for Ravenswood.
A Tasmania Fire Service investigation has since determined the fire was deliberately lit, and the matter has been handed over to police.
Detective Inspector Nathan Johnston said anyone with information was encouraged to come forward.
“Information can be provided by calling police or you can contact Crime Stoppers anonymously,” he said.
“Making a report to Crime Stoppers is completely confidential.”
Detective Inspector Johnston said anyone who did not need to travel through Ravenswood should avoid the area to allow emergency services to continue with their operations in the coming days.
“If you are passing emergency service vehicles with lights flashing, remember to slow down to 40km/h,” he said.
The community can also expect to see an increased police presence in the Ravenswood area over the coming days as part of the ongoing investigation.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or via crimestopperstas.com.au
Keep up to date at TasAlert.com or by listening to ABC Radio.