Victoria is set to swelter under a fierce heatwave this week, with authorities warning of soaring temperatures, dangerous fire conditions, and the potential for flash flooding once the weather finally breaks.
Record-Breaking Heatwave Grips the State
Meteorologists are predicting some of the hottest days in years as a massive dome of heat settles over Victoria, pushing temperatures in Melbourne and inland regions well beyond 40 degrees. The Bureau of Meteorology says Saturday and Tuesday are likely to be the peak scorcher days, with outer suburbs expected to reach 44 degrees, and towns like Ouyen, near Mildura, forecast to hit a staggering 48 degrees.
Senior meteorologist Kevin Parkin said the system, described as a “heat dome,” could linger for several days, bringing relentless heat and little relief. Authorities are preparing for extreme fire danger across the Wimmera, south-west, and central regions, though a catastrophic rating has not yet been issued. Parkin warned that the lack of rainfall will make conditions volatile. “It’s an extended period of heat affecting Victoria, and unfortunately, I can’t bring any good news with regard to rainfall,” he said to The Age.
Fires and Agricultural Losses Mount
The Country Fire Authority (CFA) and Emergency Management Victoria are on high alert as several fires continue to burn across the state. The Mallacoota-Lake Barracoota fire in East Gippsland remains uncontrolled, while blazes in Wonnangatta-Dargo and Walwa are being closely monitored.
Officials say that more than 430 homes have been destroyed this summer, along with over 1,000 outbuildings. The Longwood fire, which tore through 144,000 hectares, has been the most destructive so far, killing more than 35,000 cattle and sheep. CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said that while winds during this heatwave are expected to be weaker than those seen earlier in the month, the risk remains high.
Total fire bans will be enforced across much of the state, and residents are urged to avoid lighting any fires outdoors.
Flash Flooding Still a Risk
While the focus is firmly on heat and fire, emergency services are also watching for another threat — flash flooding. State Emergency Service (SES) officials say intense storms could follow the heatwave, creating sudden downpours that the ground won’t be able to absorb. Earlier this month, flash floods on the Great Ocean Road swept cars into the sea at Cumberland River, catching campers off guard.
SES Chief Operations Officer Alistair Drayton warned that similar incidents could happen again.
Staying Safe in Extreme Heat
Authorities are urging Victorians to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activity during peak heat, and check on vulnerable neighbours. With multiple dangers at play — from bushfires to floods — the coming week could test communities across the state once again. The heatwave may pass, but the warnings are clear: this is shaping up to be one of the toughest summers Victoria has faced in years.
