No fires can be lit or be allowed to remain alight in the open air from 12:01am on Tuesday until 11:59 PM in those three districts, the Country Fire Authority has advised.

The fire danger rating in the Central and Northern Country districts has been forecast at very high.

The Bureau of Meteorology expects temperatures in Bendigo on Tuesday to soar to 39 degrees. 

A maximum of 40 degrees is predicted in Northern Country towns such as Kyabram. 

A top of 39 degrees is expected in Maryborough, which falls within the North Central district, in which a total fire ban applies.

The North Central district includes the municipalities of Mitchell, Mount Alexander and Central Goldfields.

Gannawarra, Buloke and part of Yarriambiack shires are part of the Mallee.

The rest of Yarriambiack shire, and Northern Grampians shire, are in the Wimmera district.

Greater Bendigo, Campaspe and Loddon shires are in the Northern Country district. 

The Central district includes Macedon Ranges shire.

For information about what is and is not permitted during a Total Fire Ban, see the CFA website.