Temperatures are predicted to soar to 35 degrees today, with the region now baked dry, thanks to below-average rainfall for the last seven months.

A severe fire danger rating is also in place and fire crews are pleaded with the community to take care when outdoors.

NSW Rural Fire Service Canobolas Zone fire mitigation officer Geoff Selwood said the smallest spark could start a fast-moving fire in today’s conditions.

“Don’t use any grinders, welders or anything that’s going to cause a spark,” he said.

“We’d like to see any slashing contractors do it very early in the morning.”

During a total fire ban no fire may be lit in the open. This includes incinerators and barbecues  that burn solid fuel such as wood or charcoal.

All fire permits are suspended during a total fire ban.

Hot weather is predicted to continue for the rest of the week with a top of 34 tomorrow and Saturday, and 32 on Sunday.

Weatherzone meteorologist Kim Westcott said there was no significant rainfall predicted for the coming week.

“There might be some drops verging on the singular late Sunday and into Monday,” she said.

Other central ranges council areas with a total fire ban include Bathurst, Blayney, Cabonne, Cowra, Lithgow and Mid West.

The total fire ban will remain in place until midnight.

nadine.morton@fairfaxmedia.com.au