Across Australia there are a number of fire districts facing extreme or catastrophic fire danger ratings in this ongoing heatwave.

As of late Thursday in Victoria, the South-West, Wimmera, Northern Country and North Central districts have been assigned a catastrophic rating, while the rest of the state has been assigned an extreme rating. South Australia has nine districts with a forecast of extreme.

Australia’s fire danger ratings are designed to provide a clear, consistent warning system for communities.

There are four ratings that communicate to the public how dangerous a fire would be if one started, rather than how likely it is to occur. These ratings guide the actions that community members should take before and during a “bad” fire day.

A moderate warning suggests most fires can be controlled by fire agencies. You should “plan and prepare” by revisiting your bushfire plan, preparing your........

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