Victoria Faces 50C Heat, Black Saturday Records May Fall

Victoria is confronting a severe heatwave, with meteorologists warning of potential record-breaking temperatures today, possibly exceeding 49 degrees Celsius in some regional areas. This forecast threatens to surpass the state's highest recorded temperature of 48.8 degrees, which occurred in Hopetoun during the Black Saturday fires of 2009. The extreme heat is coupled with dangerously dry conditions and the risk of dry lightning, exacerbating the threat of fires already burning out of control.

A statewide total fire ban is in effect, with five districts facing extreme fire danger ratings. Urgent evacuation orders have been issued for residents in proximity to the Otways fire near Carlisle River, with police and SES conducting door-knocking in affected areas. Similar 'leave now' warnings are in place for communities near the Walwa fire in the state's north-east, bordering New South Wales.

Melbourne is also expected to experience intense heat, with temperatures potentially reaching 46 degrees, particularly in western suburbs, and the possibility of smoke settling in the afternoon and evening. While a cooler south-westerly change is predicted for late Tuesday night, bringing milder conditions on Wednesday to the south, the north of the state faces an extended heatwave lasting up to eight days. The Australian Open has also adjusted its schedule due to the extreme heat.