Victoria's unprecedented record-breaking heatwave is on its final stretch; however, large parts of the state are expected to see their fourth or fifth consecutive day in the 40s before a squally change arrives bringing a significant drop in the mercury. Today, Melbourne is likely to see its fourth consecutive day in the 40s, the first time this has occurred since 1908 when five consecutive days were observed. This comes the day after reaching 43.9 degrees, its hottest day since Black Saturday. Bendigo is also on track to see its fourth consecutive day above 42 degrees, the first time this has occurred since records began in 1957, including a record high of 43.8 degrees (for any month) on Tuesday the 14th. Likewise, Ballarat is likely to see its fourth consecutive day in excess of 38 degree, only the second time this has occurred in over 50 years of records, the last time being in 2009. Mildura in the Mallee will see its fifth consecutive days in the 40s. A squally cool change will sweep through the state from this afternoon, causing the mercury to drop by up to 20 degrees over the space of few hours. However, northerly winds ahead of the change will become strong and gusty, leading to the highest fire danger ratings of this event so far. A Total Fire Ban is in force for the entire state with extreme fire danger forecast for the Wimmera and South West, and severe fire danger for the remainder of the state. Thunderstorms with little if any rain will again develop with and ahead of the front, exacerbating the risk of fires. These dry thunderstorms have already sparked blazes over the last few days, with dozens of fires currently burning across the state, some prompting evacuations. While the cooler temperatures will be a welcome relief, the change in wind direction associated with the front could be detrimental to firefighters, with fires a good chance to spread rapidly as gusts reach up to 60-70km/h. Thankfully, by the weekend a sense of normality will finally be restored for many after a scorching week, with temperatures likely to be 20 degrees cooler across many districts. Fires, however, are likely to be a major issue across the state in days to come despite the cooler temperatures.