Summary:
- The Australian state of Victoria has declared a total fire ban due to extreme bushfire risk. This means no open-air fires are allowed, including campfires and barbecues, to prevent the outbreak of potentially devastating wildfires.
- The fire ban is in place for the entire state and comes as weather forecasts predict high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds - conditions that can rapidly spread and intensify bushfires.
- Authorities are urging residents to be vigilant and prepared, as the risk of bushfires is extremely high. Violating the fire ban can result in hefty fines or even imprisonment.