6.31am Friday: Upper Murray residents have been strongly recommended to evacuate this morning owing to fire.
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Official emergency warnings issued by Forest Fire Management Victoria said Victoria Police would help people to evacuate from 6am Friday.
The warnings have been issued for Biggara, Tintaldra, Towong, Towong Upper, Walwa, Burrowye, Koetong, Lucyvale, Nariel Valley, Shelley, Berringama and surrounding communities.
"Fire weather on Saturday is predicted to be extreme, creating fire storm conditions which may not be survivable," the warning said.
The message remains current until 11.40am Friday, after which it may be too late to leave.
"Evacuation after this time is considered life threatening," the warning said.
People should travel west on the Murray Valley Highway towards Corryong and Tallangatta.
The Murray Valley Highway has been opened to allow residents to evacuate.
Safer locations include relief centres at Corryong High School, Tallangatta Memorial Hall, Wodonga at The Cube and Wangaratta Perfoming Arts Centre.
An animal relief centre is open at Wangaratta Showgrounds, Golf Link Lane.
If you evacuate to a family or friend's house you should register with the evacuation centre to help others find you.
When you leave remember to take your pets, mobile phone and charger.
If you are away from home; do not return.
If you choose to stay, emergency services may not be able to help you.
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