Extraordinary photo shows a WATER TRUCK spectacularly bursting into flames as stunned tradies watch on

A water tanker has caught fire on a main country road in central Queensland, sending passengers fleeing for their lives.

Emergency services responded to Dysart Middlemount Road near Middlemount about 8.30am on Friday following reports of a lorry on fire.

While driving, firefighters called for backup after seeing huge plumes of black smoke billowing from the scene.

When firefighters arrived at the scene, the truck was on fire, but it was quickly extinguished.

A photo from the scene shortly after firefighters arrived showed the truck completely engulfed in flames and thick plumes of smoke filling the air.

Firefighters arriving at the scene found the water tanker completely engulfed in flames.

It is understood that a fire broke out in the cab of the truck, forcing passengers to flee.

“Everyone got out OK and there was no other threat to buildings or other vehicles,” a Queensland Fire and Emergency Services spokesman said.

Paramedics were called to the scene, but no injuries were reported.

“No patients were treated and no transport was required,” an ambulance spokesman said.

After the fire was contained, firefighters spent two hours clearing the scene.

Dysart Middlemount Road was closed in both directions for about an hour but has since reopened.

Middlemount is halfway between Mackay and Rockhampton.

The passengers in the truck managed to get out of the vehicle without injury.