Emergency warning for east coast Tasmania bushfire

"The fire danger rating is severe. Fires under these conditions are expected to be uncontrollable and fast-moving," the Tasmania Fire Service (TFS) said.

"Burning embers may threaten your home before the main fire arrives."

The fire, which is travelling east towards Friendly Beaches from Coles Bay Road, is about 20km north of the picturesque Freycinet National Park.

Police have closed Coles Bay Road from the Tasman Highway to Swanwick Road.

A watch-and-act alert is in place for Swanwick and Friendly Beaches.

"This fire is expected to put Swanwick and Coles Bay at high risk in the next few hours," the TFS says.