Residents relax as Biarra blaze downgraded

Fire authorities have downgraded a warning about a large bushfire which had been threatening the community of Biarra, near Esk, northwest of Brisbane.

Strong winds in the area had made the fire very fast moving, however as at 5pm on Thursday fire crews, supported by waterbombing aircraft, were working to contain the blaze.

The fire was still travelling from Esk Crows Nest Road towards Wells Station Road, but the "Prepare to Leave" warning had been downgraded to "Stay Informed" with properties no longer under direct threat.

Residents are urged to be ready to enact their bushfire plan and be ready to leave quickly if the situation deteriorates again.

Anyone with asthma or breathing difficulty is being warned of significant smoke in the area due to the fire.