The Northern Country forecast district encompasses the Greater Bendigo, Campaspe, Loddon, Greater Shepparton, Moira and Strathbogie municipalities, while Mallee includes Buloke, Gannawarra, Mildura, Swan Hill and north Yarriambiack.

A top of 35 degrees is expected in Bendigo, with possible showers and thunderstorms later in the day and winds reaching 35 km/h in the early afternoon.

A partly cloudy day is expected in other parts, including Kerang and Echuca, which are forecast to reach maximums of 37 and 36 degrees respectively.

On total fire ban days, all campfires and solid and liquid fuel barbecues and ovens are banned.

Vehicles should not be driven where they will be in contact with vegetation, and people should avoid using chainsaws, trimmers or lawn mowers.

The use of farm machinery, such as tractors, slashers, and excavating machines, should also be avoided.

Elsewhere in the region, the fire danger rating is ‘very high’.

For more information on what can and cannot be done on total fire ban days and during the fire danger period, visit the CFA website.