State braces for 'unpredictable' fires and authorities issue air quality warning as extreme heat descends on city

Victoria is set to swelter through the hottest day of the summer so far with extreme heat and strong, gusty winds expected to stir up dust prompting a health warning from authorities.

Melbourne is set to sweat through its hottest day in three years.

Emergency services are also bracing for "uncontrollable, unpredictable and fast-moving" fires.

The state's Environment Protection Authority has warned Melbourne and Geelong residents that the conditions are likely to raise dust and reduce air quality.

EPA Air Quality Scientist Gavin Fisher said in areas in such as Brooklyn and South Geelong, the air quality would be poor and could increase the risk of health problems for those with  heart and respiratory conditions.

Read the story from The Age by Melissa Cunningham and Anna Prytz - “State braces for 'unpredictable' fires and authorities issue air quality warning as extreme heat descends on city.”

Short, sharp shocker looms, with fireys braced for a 'nasty day

Emergency services are on alert for a dangerous Friday, with extreme heat and strong, gusty winds forecast and the Country Fire Authority bracing for "uncontrollable, unpredictable and fast-moving" fires.

Fire crews are braced for a 'killer day.'CREDIT:

A statewide total fire ban is in place, with temperatures forecast to reach scorching highs.

Melbourne is expecting a top of 42 degrees, while Geelong is forecast to hit 43. In the state’s north-west, Mildura and Swan Hill are preparing for a whopping 46 degrees.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued severe weather warnings for damaging winds of up to 100 km/h in the afternoon and a risk of thunderstorms and dry lightning which could spark fires but with little rain.

Read the story from The Age by Anna Prytz - “Short, sharp shocker looms, with fireys braced for a 'nasty day.