Mount Garnet residents allowed to return home safely as bushfire eases

Residents evacuated from a Far North Queensland town threatened by a raging bushfire have been told it's safe to return home after fire conditions eased.

Authorities tonight urged those living in Mount Garnet in the Tablelands, south-west of Cairns, to be cautious while heading home as the fire continued to burn.

They were warned to be careful around damaged buildings and watch out for burnt trees, hot embers and fallen power lines.

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Shortly before 7pm, the fire was still burning near Warruma Swamp Road between Onyx Street and Harrison Road but was within containment lines as firefighters remained on site.

An earlier emergency warning, which urged residents to immediately flee, was several hours later downgraded to advice level.

An evacuation site was set up at Innot Hot Springs Progress Association Hall on Kennedy Highway.

Queenslanders are urged to check for road closures before leaving at the QLD Traffic website or call 13 19 40.

For all warnings, visit the QFD Current Bushfires and Warnings website.