Australians in Victoria are warned to prepare for "property loss or worse" as extreme heat and bushfires rage across the state. Record high temperatures, peaking at 42C in Melbourne and up to 45C in north-west Victoria, fuel dangerous fire conditions. A total fire ban is in effect, with all regions rated "catastrophic" or "extreme" for fire risk. A large bushfire near Longwood has burned almost 36,000 hectares and destroyed at least 20 homes in Ruffy. Ruffy CFA captain George Noye said, "The main street looks like a bomb's gone off, we've lost a school." He added, "Some properties have lost everything. They've lost their livelihoods, they've lost their shearing sheds, livestock, just absolutely devastating. But thankfully, at the moment, no lives have been lost." Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner Bob Hill said three people remain missing in the Longwood area. "They may be safe, they may be alive, let's not get ahead of ourselves, but we are keeping an open mind," he said. Fire officials warned the fire was "incredibly dynamic," spreading in multiple directions and possibly beyond initial estimates. Another fire near Walwa has consumed more than 17,000 hectares. CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan told ABC, "Victorians should brace themselves for more property loss or worse." He added, "Yes, we are talking about Longwood and Walwa, but we have many other fires that have started this morning in and around communities... I am expecting more as the day goes on." The Australian Capital Territory has imposed a total fire ban for the first time in six years. Sydney faces temperatures up to 42C on Saturday, cooling by Sunday. South Australia battles several small fires with forecast highs reaching 46C. Residents are urged to stay alert and cautious amid these severe conditions.