A major cleanup operation has been launched along one of Australia's most iconic coastal routes after a sudden and severe storm triggered dangerous flash flooding, with dramatic footage showing multiple vehicles being swept into the ocean.
Storm unleashes chaos on coastal communities
The incident unfolded on Thursday afternoon, February 29, 2024, when an intense weather cell slammed into the Surf Coast region of Victoria. The downpour was so heavy and sudden that it caused significant flash flooding across the Great Ocean Road between the popular towns of Lorne and Apollo Bay.
Emergency services were inundated with calls for help as water rapidly inundated the road. The most startling scenes emerged from near the Kennett River Holiday Park, where the force of the floodwater pushed several parked cars off the road and into the turbulent sea below. Social media was quickly flooded with videos of the shocking moment, capturing the raw power of the flash flood.
Victoria State Emergency Service (SES) crews from the Anglesea and Lorne units were among the first responders on the scene, working to assess the damage and ensure public safety. The scale of the response highlights the severity of the localised event.
Cleanup and recovery efforts now underway
In the aftermath of the storm, the focus has shifted to a large-scale cleanup. Crews are working to clear debris, mud, and rocks that were washed across the scenic highway, which is a critical transport link and major tourist drawcard for the region.
Authorities are urging motorists to continue to exercise extreme caution in the area. While the immediate flood threat has passed, the road surface may be damaged and hidden hazards like debris or loose gravel could remain. Drivers are advised to reduce speed, follow the directions of any traffic management crews, and check the VicTraffic website or app for the latest updates before travelling.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of how quickly weather conditions can change in coastal areas, especially during the summer storm season. Local residents and visitors are being reminded to stay informed about weather warnings issued by the Bureau of Meteorology and to have a plan in place for severe weather events.
A warning from nature's power
This flash flooding event on the Great Ocean Road underscores the immense power of nature and the vulnerability of coastal infrastructure. While the iconic road is built for breathtaking views, Thursday's storm proved it is also exposed to the elements.
Thankfully, there have been no reports of serious injuries related to the cars being swept away, which is a fortunate outcome given the potential danger of the situation. The community response and the swift action of emergency services have been pivotal in managing the incident's aftermath.
As the cleanup progresses, questions will likely be asked about preparedness and infrastructure resilience in the face of increasingly volatile weather patterns. For now, the priority remains making the road safe again for all who use it.
