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Great Ocean Road Communities Shift to Recovery After Flash Floods Sweep Cars Into Sea

Clean-up is under way with a key stretch of the highway still closed.

Overview

  • Authorities report no confirmed fatalities, with at least six rescues carried out, including an aerial winch at Cumberland River.
  • Record short-duration rain of roughly 170–186mm around Mt Cowley and Lorne triggered rapid rises in the Wye, Kennett and Cumberland rivers.
  • Emergency relief centres are operating in Lorne and Apollo Bay as officials warn of electrocution risks, biological hazards, mud and unstable roads.
  • Dozens of vehicles and caravans were damaged or displaced, with officials estimating roughly 10 to 20 vehicles likely lost to floodwaters.
  • Forecasts point to easing conditions in Victoria this weekend before possible severe thunderstorms early next week, while heavy rain and hazardous surf affect NSW.