Ballarat residents are in for a hot start to the new year with temperatures forecast to hit the 30s from Saturday.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, Ballarat can expect a top of 30 degrees on New Year's Eve.

Temperatures are forecast to hit the early to mid 30s during the first four days of the new year.

Ballarat City Council said locals and visitors should take appropriate care in days of extreme heat.

Some precautions include keeping animals in the shade with plenty of water; blocking out the sun using curtains/blinds; maintaining hydration by drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding alcohol and sugary drinks; staying indoors and spending as much time as possible in cool or air-conditioned buildings.

We're also urged to check on older sick and frail relatives, friends and neighbours.

The heat has already hit areas north-west of Ballarat - including in Horsham, Nhill and Warracknabeal - with temperatures already in the 30s on Thursday. These areas can expect a top of 41 degrees on Monday.