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Hume Highway reopens to traffic after bushfire forces closure

Traffic has now reopened on the Hume Highway following a bushfire at Inverary Road, north of Marulan.

However, motorists have been warned to drive carefully due to lingering smoke and the presence of firefighters working to put out the still-burning blaze..

The highway was closed for several hours on Saturday after the fire broke out just after 12.25pm.

Residents in nearby Hanging Rock were told to evacuate with an emergency warning put in place, but the fire was since downgraded to a 'watch and act' late on Saturday afternoon.

Smoke is also impacting on road conditions for drivers.

An RFS spokesman said 87 firefighters and 24 fire crews were on the scene at the height of the blaze.

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Four aircraft as well as an air tanker was also used in firefighting efforts to assist crews on the ground.

The spokesman said while the fire currently isn't causing a direct threat to homes, people living in the area should be monitoring conditions.

The fire has since been downgraded to advice.

"The threat to homes has decreased through the hard work of crews as well as the easing of conditions into the evening," the spokesman said.

Crews will work throughout the night to contain the blaze, with backburning also scheduled to take place.

Residents in nearby Wingello and Penrose are being advised they may be affected by smoke due to the fire.