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The Country Fire Authority has declared a total fire ban across parts of Victoria, with temperatures in the high 30s and up to 45km/h winds expected in affected districts.
The ban was declared for the Mallee, Wimmera, South West, Northern Country, North Central and Central for Saturday.
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said Saturday's conditions could make it difficult for firefighters to suppress a fire should one start.
"We are asking people to take heed of the total fire ban conditions," he said.
"People need to be aware of the increased fire danger and ensure your fire plan covers all possible contingencies."
Total fire bans require no fires be lit or remain lit for the duration of the ban, including campfires and for those who have permits for fuel reduction.
People with fuel-reduction permits must postpone any burns until after the ban is lifted.
Deputy Premier Jacinta Allan urged people to be mindful of their outdoor activities and to limit travel if possible.
"Even though we're not in summer, it's one of those really difficult days that you get from time to time over the summer period where it's hot, its windy, its uncomfortable," she told reporters in Bendigo.
"Following the rain events of last year, there is a lot of grass, a lot of fuel around as it's dried out over the summer period."
The Bureau of Meteorology this week declared an end to the cooler, wetter La Nina weather pattern and issued a watch for El Nino, which is associated with drier conditions in Australia and an increased fire risk.
More neutral weather was expected throughout autumn and winter, but hotter conditions could occur by summer, the bureau's Andrew Watkins said on Tuesday.
