Extreme conditions across Victoria
Firefighters are preparing for extreme conditions across Victoria, with one home already lost, as a grass fire threatened towns at the foothills of the Grampians.
Fire Services Commissioner Craig Lapsley confirmed that one home had burnt down in the fire that's razed 4796ha near the town of Moyston in northwest Victoria.
Firefighters had stopped the head of the grass fire in the Moyston area on Friday night, but crews still battled the blaze in blustery conditions, which were expected to last until 6am on Saturday.
The emergency fire warning was downgraded to a watch and act message on Friday night, but Mr Lapsley warned conditions could change quickly.
A bushfire is threatening homes near Moyston in Victoria
Temperatures are expected to hit 39C in Melbourne and more than 40C in regional areas. Find the forecast for your area here.
Victoria has an extreme fire danger rating, with the high temperatures in the west and with winds expected to be gusting up to 90km/h.
There is a total fire ban across the entire state.
The CFA, Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria have warned Victorians to stay alert during hot temperatures.
Those living in fire danger areas should plan to leave early and those with elderly or sick relatives are asked to ensure they stay hydrated.
Homes lost in South Australia
Five houses have been destroyed in a bushfire on the fringes of Adelaide.
The out-of-control Sampson Flat fire burned five houses overnight, with firefighters expecting a strong wind to accelerate the fire on Saturday morning.
Smoke from the fire, burning in the Mount Lofty Ranges northeast of Adelaide, can be seen from the metropolitan area.
The Country Fire Service has told residents to follow their bushfire survival plans, and leave if the path is clear.
"Take shelter before the fire arrives as radiant heat can kill you well before the flames reach you," the warning said.
A CFS spokesman said an expected wind change could accelerate the fire.
The CFS expects a change in the wind direction could affect Gumeracha, Chain of Ponds, Forreston and Kersbrook near Little Para Road, Forreston Road, Adelaide to Mannum Road, Checker Hill Road, Hill Road and Northsworthy Road.
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