Bushfire warning as Victoria temperatures soar past 40°C

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Summer has arrived with force in Victoria after a cold start to December, pushing temperatures sharply higher across the state.

Melbourne hit 37°C before midday and is set to stay hot into the evening, with temperatures still near 30°C at sunset. Another warm day is expected tomorrow, with a top of 34°C.

Regional areas are feeling the heat even more. Parts of the Mallee could reach 44°C, while Horsham, Mildura, Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo and Wangaratta are forecast to exceed 40°C.

Fire conditions are worsening. A bushfire warning is in place near Goomalibee in the state’s north-east, with a watch and act alert for nearby communities including Benalla. A grass fire has also been reported near Broken Creek. Fire bans are active in the Wimmera and Grampians, where temperatures may reach 42°C.

Relief is on the way. Melbourne is expected to cool by Saturday, with a top of 24°C, followed by a cooler and wet Sunday. Rain is likely, with an 80 per cent chance forecast.

Elsewhere, Sydney will be milder today but is heading for a hot 36°C tomorrow. Some NSW towns, including Wagga Wagga, may approach 40°C. Heatwave warnings remain in place across large parts of the state.

Canberra is also under an extreme heat warning, with temperatures reaching 36°C today and tomorrow before cooler, wetter weather arrives.

Adelaide is bracing for temperatures near 40°C, while total fire bans are in force across parts of South Australia following recent fire activity.

Authorities are urging people to stay cool, limit outdoor activity and keep up to date with local fire and weather warnings.

More updates to come on AusNewsLanka.