Total Fire Ban declared across most of Victoria

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A Total Fire Ban is in force across most of Victoria today as hot, dry and windy conditions drive extreme fire danger.

Authorities say the state is facing its driest start to a year since 2009. With parched bushland and strong north-westerly winds, the fire risk has surged.

An extreme fire danger rating applies to most districts. Only the South-West and East Gippsland areas are rated high.

The Total Fire Ban covers the Mallee, Wimmera, North Country, North Central, Central, North East, West and South Gippsland districts. No fires are allowed in the open air for the entire day.

Temperatures are climbing statewide. Melbourne is forecast to reach 32°C, with a chance of showers later. Northern centres will be hotter, including 40°C in Mildura, 39°C in Echuca, and 36°C in Bendigo. Bairnsdale is expected to hit 37°C, with possible afternoon rain.

Winds of 30 to 40 km/h, with stronger gusts in some areas, are expected to push fire quickly through dry grass and bush. A cooler south-westerly change will move through from late morning, reaching Melbourne around midday to early afternoon. Light rain is forecast later in the day, but only small totals are expected.

Fire officials warn the landscape is extremely dry and the threat is real. Residents in affected areas are urged to follow fire ban rules strictly and review their fire safety plans.

Three major fires — at Walwa, Longwood and the Otways — remain contained but are still burning.

Conditions are expected to ease tomorrow, with Melbourne temperatures set to drop sharply to around 18°C.

More updates to come on AusNewsLanka.