About 40 cattle escaped on the Stuart Highway just north of Katherine after a truck caught fire.

The fire engulfed the cattle road train at around 10.30 last night 42km north of Katherine near Edith River.

The truck was stopped at a parking bay rest stop when the driver noticed a fire starting near one of the tyres.

“Driver has managed to release the cattle onto the road,” a police spokeswoman said. 

“Katherine Fire Crews attended. Fire burned for a number of hours, was eventually put out around 4:57am.

“Approximately 38 cattle remain in the area, helicopter being sourced to assist with the mustering.”

NT police last night warned motorists to be on the alert. 

“There are cattle loose on the road and extreme care should be taken when travelling through this area.”

Meanwhile at about 9.40 last night, firefighters attended a second blaze 50km west of Katherine on the Victoria Highway. 

“Truck driver calls to report his fuel tank was alight, he has managed to pull over and unhook his load,” the police spokeswoman said.

“Truck continued to burn for a number of hours before fire fighters were able to put out the blaze. Fire does not appear to be suspicious.”