The cleanup is underway this morning following yesterday’s flooding on the Surf Coast.
Flash flooding in Lorne and the Wye, Kennett and Cumberland Rivers saw emergency warnings issued to take shelter as flooding washed away cars and rivers broke their banks.
Locals were told to stay inside as waters rose quickly, with cars washed away and local caravan parks evacuated.
The emergency warning was downgraded to a watch and act around 8pm, and has subsequently been downgraded further to an advice level event.
Liberal member for Polwarth Richard Riordan says communities were caught off-guard.
“Flash summer storms aren’t unusual for the area,” he said.
“But this was one of the worst ones we have seen. It came from nowhere, and you could see the level of flooding in the caravan aprks.
“It’s to a level rarely seen.”
The Great Ocean Road remains closed between Lorne and Skenes Creek.
The Surf Coast Shire has acted quickly, opening a relief centre.
“Surf Coast Shire Council has opened an emergency relief centre at Stribling Reserve, 45 Otway Street in Lorne, for people evacuating their homes or accommodation due to the flooding in Lorne and surrounds,” a statement said.
“The emergency relief centre is a free and safe location providing basic needs such as shelter, food, water, and non-food items (like bedding and clothing).
“With demand expected to be high, impacted community members and visitors are asked to seek refuge with family or friends as a first option. However, the emergency relief centre is available for those who need it.
“Community members attending the relief centre can register in person on arrival or online via surfcoast.vic.gov.au/LorneERC.”
