Heatwave engulfs south-eastern states as Victoria faces catastrophic fire conditions not seen since Black Summer

Melbourne mercury expected to hit 43C with higher temperatures inland and a total fire ban in place for all Victoria

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Dire bushfire conditions threatened south-eastern states on Friday as unrelenting heat bore down on large parts of Australia and Victorians prepared for catastrophic conditions not seen since 2019-20.

Catastrophic and extreme fire danger ratings were in place throughout Victoria, with the entire state under a total fire ban. Extreme conditions were expected across much of South Australia as well as the New South Wales Riverina.

Melbourne: Windy. Late cool change, possible storm, maximum 43C.

Canberra: sunny, maximum 39C.

Adelaide: mostly sunny, maximum 32C.

Sydney: sunny, maximum 33C.

Darwin: showers, storm, maximum 33C.

Perth: partly cloudy, maximum 29C.

Brisbane: possible shower, maximum 29C.

Hobart: shower or two, maximum 25C.