Rain exceeding 250mm may fall in the north-east ranges from Friday to Sunday (Dec. 1-3), advises the Bureau of Meteorology.

Heavy rain and scattered thunderstorms which may lead to flash flooding are likely to develop in the far west during tonight (Thurs.) before extending across the remaining parts of the State during Friday. The heavy rain and thunderstorm activity will continue on Saturday..

Three day totals of around 100-200mm are expected acoss most of northern and central regions of the State. Elsewhere totals are likely to be between 30 and 100mm. Over the northeast ranges totals may exceed 250mm.

The State Emergency Service advises:
* Don’t walk, ride or drive through flood water;
* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains;
* Be aware that in fire affected areas, rainfall run-off into waterways may contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks;
* Be alert that in areas recently affected by fires, heavy rainfall increases the potential for landslides and debris across roads.

VicRoads adds:

The Bureau of Meteorology has a severe weather warning current for heavy rain across Victoria. Widespread flooding is likely from Friday onwards.  

VicRoads reminds all road users of the importance of taking extreme care in difficult driving conditions.

If the predicted weather event occurs as described by The Bureau of Meteorology, some roads will close and areas of the state could be cut off.

Only travel if it is absolutely essential. Avoid using the road network.

Consider your needs now, stock up on essentials before the bad weather arrives.

If you must drive there are steps to improve road safety:

·        Don’t walk, ride or drive through flood water. You wouldn’t drive through flames, so don’t drive through floods.

·        Cars can float in as little as 15cm of water – that’s water the depth of an average pen. Watch the video here http://15tofloat.com.au/

·        If the rain is too heavy for your wipers to cope, the best course of action is to pull over and wait until visibility improves.

·        Make sure your car is safe and in a roadworthy condition – in particular, check tyres, windscreen wipers and brake lights.

·        Slow down and leave a greater distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front.

·        Turn your headlights on.

·        Be alert for other road users who may be difficult to see, such as motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians.

If you see any problems on our roads, please report them to the VicRoads Traffic Management Centre on 13 11 70 (open 24/7). In an emergency call Triple Zero (000).

For the latest information visit traffic.vicroads.vic.gov.au, download the VicTraffic app, follow @VicTraffic on Twitter or check the VicTraffic Facebook page.

Chris Miller from VicRoads can provide pre recorded information and an audio file is attached for use within news bulletins.