RESIDENTS, holiday makers and businesses in Victoria's north east have been warned to prepare for possible flooding this weekend.

Victoria's SES, the Bureau of Meteorology and Victoria Police issued the warning today with heavy rainfalls of between 50-100mm predicted for the region over the weekend, and between 10-30mm across the rest of the state.

The bureau is carefully monitoring all river systems but particularly those that have already received regular rainfall this year.

"With the catchments in the North East already saturated, we expect most of this rainfall to find its way into the river systems and potentially cause some major flooding," a senior forecaster at the bureau, Kevin Parkyn, said.

"A deepening low pressure system moving over the state Saturday and Sunday will see heavy falls particularly in the North East and also some risk of gale force winds in elevated areas of the great dividing range," he said.

VICSES warned that Victorians had not faced flood threats for a long time and should ensure they are prepared for the coming conditions.

"VICSES Volunteers are on high alert across the state and preparations are being made for a very wet, and possibly dangerous weekend in the north east,” acting director of operations, Tim Wiebusch, said.

"We are asking people in flood prone areas, particularly in the north east of the state to stay away from flood water and never walk, ride, play or drive in floodwater as this is extremely dangerous."

"If we do see widespread heavy rainfall in the North-east there is the possibility of major flooding. Property owners in low-lying areas should be prepared.

"Residents should stay tuned to the emergency broadcasters: ABC Local Radio, UGFM community radio, commercial radio stations, or SKY NEWS Television."

Victoria Police Superintendent Alan Byrnes from the Victoria Police Emergency Management department urged motorists to be aware of the conditions and drive with extra caution.

"There is the potential for widespread flooding, and drivers should be careful if driving close to roadside edges as the excess water may cause the some unsealed roadsides to become soft, slippery and slightly unstable.

"There is also potential for land slippage, particularly in fire damaged areas- road users should reduce their speed and be aware of debris on the roads.

"I also want to reiterate what SES has already stated - people should in no circumstances drive, ride or walk through floodwaters."

VICSES is offering the following advice:

• Be aware of the situation and monitor weather conditions and emergency broadcasters for further information

• Go over your Emergency Plan and locate your Emergency Kit

• Farmers should be prepared to move machinery and livestock to known higher ground

• Floodwaters are dangerous, do not drive, ride or walk through floodwaters

• For emergency assistance call the SES on 132 500, if your emergency is life threatening call 000

• For the latest flood warning and information and river heights see www.bom.gov.au

More information can be obtained at VICSES Media, 1300 783 933, and David Morrison at the Bureau of Meteorology, 0437 751 361.