Geelong and the surf coast is in for a scorcher today.
The BOM is predicting the mercury will reach a top of 42 degrees, with temperatures to be well into the high 30s by lunch time.
The day expected to be by far the hottest day of summer so far.
TOTAL FIRE BAN
The central fire zone – which includes Geelong and the surf coast – has been handed a total fire ban in response to forecast extreme fire danger.
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan says emergency services are ready to go.
“The bush is ready to burn,” he said.
“It will be a hot, nasty day.
“If fires do start in the landscape, they will be hard to suppress, they will spread very quickly.”
People are encouraged to have their fire plans ready and to follow all emergency advice.
LOCAL SERVICES CLOSED
Several facilities will be closed today around the Surf Coast due to the extreme fire conditions.
Lorne and Anglesea kinders will be closed along with Jan Juc pre-school.
The Anglesea landfill site will be closed from ten this morning, while several visitor information centres won’t be operating.
TORQUAY SURF BEACH SHUT
While not due to the heat, Torquay surf beach regulars are being told to find another spot for the day.
The beach will be temporarily closed through until Thursday as rock bags are installed to prevent erosion and damage to the sea wall.
TAKE CARE
Locals are being reminded to take care in the heat – remain hydrated across the day, and if out in the sun, remember to slip, slop, slap, seek and slide.
