A pulse of late-week heat has prompted total fire bans in northern Victoria on Friday, with storms expected to develop across the state. Northerly winds will strengthen in Victoria on Friday ahead of an approaching cold front, drawing inland heat across the state and elevating fire danger ratings in some areas. Total fire bans have been issued for the Mallee and Northern Country districts, where temperatures are likely to reach around 40 degrees. Melbourne is forecast to top out at 33 degrees, which is seven above average for this time of year. The warm air, combined with the passage of a front and low pressure trough, will also trigger showers and thunderstorms across Victoria on Friday. Some of these storms could become severe, most likely in the state's central and eastern districts from the afternoon. Large hail, heavy rain and damaging winds are all a risk in these areas. Visit http://www.weatherzone.com.au/warnings.jsp for the latest storm warnings on Friday.