A Total Fire Ban has been declared for the Mallee, Northern Country, North Central and North East fire districts for Thursday, January 8.
Severe heatwave conditions are set to continue across Victoria, with temperatures remaining dangerously high for consecutive days.
The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast a maximum temperature of 44ºC in Echuca on Thursday, with the chance of thunderstorms and damaging winds in the evening.
The ban means no fire can be lit in the open air or allowed to remain alight from 12.01am to 11.59pm on the day it is in effect.
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said the extended period of heat, combined with dry landscapes and wind, will make conditions extremely challenging.
“We’re seeing day after day of extreme heat, with little overnight relief,” he said.
“Tomorrow’s conditions will make it very difficult for firefighters to suppress a fire should one start, particularly in grassland areas where fuels have cured significantly.”
Residents are encouraged to stay informed, and learn more about restrictions by visiting www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/fire-bans-ratings-and-restrictions
40°C