Heatwave engulfs Australia’s south-east bringing 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.Melbourne’s maximum temperature was forecast to reach 43C on Friday, and up to 45C in some suburbs. The city was 38.7C at midday and reached 40C by 1pm. Continue reading…