Speaking after a briefing on the worsting flooding to hit parts of Victoria for more than 15 years, Premier John Brumby warned the worst of the flooding was yet to come.

"The real issue now is the next 36 to 48 hours ... those flood waters will continue to increase and continue to move."

The threat comes as:

• The state government announced immediate emergency relief grants for people affected of up to $1067.
• the State Emergency Service received 1,000 calls for assistance for damage caused by strong winds that swept through Melbourne last night.
• More than 40,000 Victorians from the Mornington Peninsula to Ballarat remain without power.
• Police warned sight-seers to stay away from flood damage areas as the may hinder the relief effort.