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 VictoriaFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastDire 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. Continue reading...