More than 30,000 residents in western Victoria fire-risk zones have been urged to leave their homes today as the state faces the most dangerous conditions in four years.
Half of the state is under an extreme fire danger warning, but in the far west fire district of Wimmera, the conditions for today have been listed as catastrophic.
Overnight, authorities issued a watch and act message for the communities of Amphitheatre, Bayindeen, Ben Nevis, Chute, Elmhurst, Eversley, Glenlogie, Mount Cole, Mount Lonarch, Raglan.
The bushfire at Bayindeen-Rocky Road remains out of control and residents have been urged to leave their homes.
For the latest advice and warnings, visit Vic Emergency website
"Do not wait until the bushfire spreads closer before moving to a safer location. The fire could grow significantly and may become uncontrollable.
"If you do not leave today, you may become isolated and your route to safer locations may be blocked."
Residents have been told it's not safe to return and that roads may be forced to close in coming hours.
"Road closures may occur, including roads that have recently been reopened, if they are threatened or impacted by fire."
Relief centres have already been set up at Ararat and in Maryborough.
The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting more scorching heat and gusty north to north-westerly winds over western parts of Victoria before a cooler change.
Melbourne can expect a top of 38 degrees, but the mercury will climb to over 40 degrees in other parts of the state.
Meanwhile, about 100 schools and childcare centres in fire-affected areas will be closed along with national parks.
In Halls Gap, the zoo is preparing to evacuate hundreds of animals in the event of an emergency.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said the Wimmera was facing a day of catastrophic fire dangerous today, while five more districts, including Melbourne, have been classified as extreme.
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"Fires will become very uncontrollable very quickly and no homes are designed to withstand those catastrophic conditions," Allan said.
"It will likely be one of the most dangerous days Victoria has experienced in recent years."
Emergency services in South Australia are also preparing for tough conditions today.
An extreme fire danger rating is covering central and eastern regions along with total fire bans.
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