In a dramatic series of events yesterday, emergency crews rescued at least one individual stranded on a rooftop, while several vehicles were swept away in Wye River, Kennett River, Cumberland River, and Lorne.
The chaos unfolded after more than 180mm of rain inundated the popular Victorian holiday destination in under five hours, causing several waterways to overflow.
“It was an astonishing sight,” recounted holidaymaker Darren Schonewille on the Today show this morning. “To witness how swiftly the water level rose and the ensuing chaos was surreal.”
Schonewille described the flooding as a sudden and rapid event.
Matthew Clark, another visitor, explained the challenges faced during the ordeal. “We found ourselves somewhat stranded,” he said. “Being positioned at the front made it difficult for us to reach out and assist others.”
“We were a little bit trapped, I guess, in terms of we were at the front of the and so it was quite hard to get in and help anyone out,” fellow holidaygoer Matthew Clark said.
“Seeing those cars float out and then trying to get around those people who lost belongings pretty quickly, it was pretty traumatic for the people.”
The Great Ocean Road remains closed in both directions between Lorne and Skenes Creek due to the flooding and the fear of possible landslides.
Coach services are taking detours, while drivers are urged to detour using the Princes Highway via Colac.
“Transport Victoria reminds the community of the extreme danger of travelling in the current conditions,” Transport Victoria said in a notice.
“Roads may be closed and public transport routes may be cancelled at short notice.”
Vic Emergency’s latest update, posted at midnight, said the threat of immediate flash flooding had passed.
“Dangerous hazards including floodwater, mud, debris, damaged roads and fallen trees are still be present,” the update read.
Emergency relief centres have opened at Lorne Stribling Reserve, 45 Otway Street, Lorne; and at Apollo Bay P12 College, Pengilley Avenue, Apollo Bay.
The Bureau of Meteorology has cancelled two severe weather warnings for Victoria, and no new ones are in place.
