The ACT extends its total fire ban

Authorities in the ACT have extended a total fire ban into the weekend as the nation's capital continues to swelter.

ACT Emergency Services Agency Commissioner Dominic Lane says the ban first declared on Wednesday has been extended until midnight on Saturday.

The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting a top of 40C for Canberra and strengthening winds on Saturday, with a severe fire danger.

Light showers are expected to break the heat on Monday.