Total fire ban for northwest Victoria

A total fire ban has been declared for northwestern Victoria.

The Country Fire Authority says the Mallee and Wimmera regions will be subject to a total fire ban on Monday,

It means no open-air fire can be lit or remain alight, and strict rules apply for the use of farm machinery, chainsaws and lawnmowers.

"CFA advises people living in areas at risk of fire to activate their bushfire plan," the authority said in a statement.

Temperatures are expected to reach the mid-to-high 30s in the two regions, with strengthening northwesterly winds forecast early before a blustery southerly change crossing the state throughout the day.

There is also a low risk of dry lightning in the area.

A high fire danger rating applies for Central, North Central, Northern Country and South West regions, while the eastern parts of the state are of low to moderate risk.

It is only the second total fire ban of the season, thanks in part to cooler and wetter-than-average weather in November.

The outlook for this fire season indicates a lower threat of prolonged bushfires but grass and crop blazes remain a high risk across the state after average to above-average rainfall and strong fuel growth.

"Overall, we've had milder conditions leading into this fire season, but we can't afford to be complacent about these hot and windy days where the fire danger spikes," CFA Acting Chief Officer Garry Cook said.

"Grass and crop fires are prevalent this season and can move at speeds of up to 25km per hour and jump highways."