An emergency declaration has been made after a shot was fired in Cairns this afternoon, police say.

Police attended a Collins Avenue address in Edge Hill shortly after 1pm following reports of a shot being fired.

Police said it appeared two vehicles had collided and that one person had discharged a firearm at another before leaving on foot.

An emergency situation was declared just before 2pm, with boundaries encompassing Pease Street, Woodward Street, Polentz Street and Russell Street.

Members of the public are advised to avoid the areas of while police respond or stay inside with their doors and windows locked.

Parents are able to pick up children from Edge Hill State School via Pease Street.

Multiple roads may be impacted by police stops within the local area.

Police are expected to speak to the media this afternoon.