Fire crews have been working to contain a fast-moving grassfire burning at the foothills of Victoria’s Dandenong Ranges.

The CFA has downgraded its Emergency Warning to a Watch and Act Message for Wandin North.

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“While the immediate threat has passed, continue to stay informed and monitor conditions,” the CFA says.

The Warburton Highway has reopened.

Earlier residents were told to stay in their homes and that it was too late to leave as more than 36 fire crews and firefighting aircraft battled the fast moving blaze.

Emergency Management Commissioner Craig Lapsley said the fire started in difficult terrain and conditions were “hot, windy, everything that was predicted”.

Crews continue to fight the fire and will stay in the area overnight.