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An out-of-control bushfire west of Ballarat will still be burning when Victoria is hit by a combination of wind and heat not seen in years.
The Bayindeen bushfire near Ballarat has currently burned 15,000 hectares and is rapidly making its way towards 16,000, Premier Jacinta Allan said at a press conference this afternoon.
For the latest advice and warnings, visit Vic Emergency website
No more homes have been confirmed lost through the day, leaving the count at three, along with a number of outbuildings. There have been no reports of injuries to people either.
About 700 people are on the front lines in the firefighting effort.
Chief Fire Officer of Forest Fire Management Chris Hardman said hundreds of firefighters would be working hard today to try and stop the spread of the flames.
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"What people really do need to know this is a big fire," he told Weekend Today.
"More than 500 firefighters will be on these fires today, working really hard to contain those fires and stop the spread.
"And we are very hopeful with more benign weather conditions today, that we will see some significant improvement.
"There are still many structures to be assessed that have been looked at from aerial intelligence gathering."
Meanwhile, authorities have warned Victorians to be ready for extreme fire danger next Wednesday and Thursday.
"Wednesday concerns me," Country Fire Authority Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said this afternoon.
Temperatures in the mid-40 degree range are forecast for mid-west Victoria, with the possibility of a 40 degree average across the state, along with strong, hot winds, and dry lightning.
Heffernan urged Victorians living in bush and regional areas to prepare their fire safety plan.
The dangerous conditions hitting Australia's south-east have also sparked warnings in Tasmania.
An Advice alert has been issued for Rocherlea, Mayfield, Mowbray and the surrounding areas.
People have been urged to avoid the area and stay informed of conditions, though as yet there is no immediate threat.
But there will be increased fire activity and smoke due to ongoing backburning, authorities warned.
