According to the Bureau of Meteorology, a large high pressure system over the Tasman Sea is drifting towards New Zealand. A low pressure trough over the Bight will approach Victoria from the west during today before drifting through Victoria on Tuesday. The next cold front and associated trough will approach western Victoria late Wednesday then will cross Victoria and NSW on Thursday.

Rain areas with locally heavy falls developing have been forecast in the North East Victorian catchments for Tuesday. Widespread rainfall totals of 30 to 80 mm have been forecast with higher isolated totals possible on the ranges. Rain will also occur on the Snowy Mountains.

The forecast rainfall is expected to cause significant stream rises with the possibility of minor to moderate flooding developing in the North East Victorian catchments including the Murray River (NSW side) upstream of Hume Dam from Tuesday evening.

Riverside pastoralists and campers should consider now what they may need to do to ensure the safety of themselves and or livestock and machinery should flooding occur.

Lift pumps and relocate livestock and equipment to higher ground. If isolation is likely stock up now on food, fuel, medicine and other essential items.

The NSW SES suggests the following precautions:

* Don't walk, ride or drive through floodwater,

* Don't allow children to play in floodwater,

* Stay away from waterways and stormwater drains

* Keep well clear of fallen power lines

If you need emergency help as a result of any flooding which develops, contact the NSW SES on 132 500.

In life threatening emergencies call 000 immediately.

Information on the weather in the Upper Murray catchment can be obtained from the Bureau of Meteorology website at www.bom.gov.au/hydro/flood/vic .  Alternatively, you may phone 1300 659 217.

The State Emergency Service is monitoring the situation.  Keep listening to your local radio station for updates from the NSW SES.