Drivers are warned to take precautions in wet conditions with increased risks of landslips and soft roadside edges, according to senior forecaster Kevin Parkyn.

Mr Parkyn said a large tropical storm front was moving south-east across Victoria and was expected to dump up to 50mm of rain in as little as 24 hours across the central north-west.

“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,” he said.

Mr Parkyn predicted the low pressure system could result in heavy downpours with up to 100mm in the north-east over the weekend.

SES regional manager for the north-west region Graeme Poulton said emergency teams were prepared for the worst and urged motorists, residents and farmers to be ready.

“We don’t expect to see anything like the extent of flooding across the region as was experienced in 1993, but we are taking the proper precautions to ensure fast responses to emergency situations,” Mr Poulton said.

“Motorists need to take precautions on the roads and look for loose objects. Farmers were also encouraged to move stock to higher ground, while Bridgewater and Rochester caravan parks could also experience some minor flooding.”

A spokesperson for Coliban Water said emergency management plans were in place and staff would be on stand-by throughout the flood warning period.

For help, phone the SES on 132 500 or receive regular updates via local radio.