The state is sweltering through its worst heatwave since 2009, with temperatures soaring above 40C, potentially smashing records.

At least three homes have been lost in the raging Otways fire, although it’s not clear if they are primary places of residence or holiday homes.

Authorities expect a strong ‘punchy’ south-southwesterly wind change on Tuesday afternoon, which will create an erratic and extreme conditions in the Otways.

Wind gusts of up to 70 km/h are forecast for the region from 5pm.

‘That fire will run. It will develop a plume and it will pick up really significant energy,’ Forest Fire Management Victoria chief fire officer Chris Hardman said.

‘The heat conditions are making things incredibly difficult for firefighters in Victoria.’

Several homes have been destroyed by large bushfires in Victoria amid the worst heatwave since 2009

Townships of Barongarook, Gellibrand, Kawarren and Lovat have been added to the evacuation warnings.

‘If you are located in these areas it is recommended you evacuate immediately and move to a safer location away from the fire,’ the order said.