Search for swimmer at Tasmanian gorge

Emergency services are searching for a young swimmer missing at a popular spot in northern Tasmania.

The woman, aged in her 20s, became separated from friends and family around 1.10pm on Tuesday at Cataract Gorge in Launceston.

She was last seen swimming in the basin area of the gorge, which is typically open from November to March each year.

Drones and kayaking volunteers are being used in the search.

Tasmanian Police Acting Inspector Aleena Crack told the ABC the woman was swimming with friends and family who "lost sight of her".

Police have asked people to avoid the area while the search is underway.