A devastating flash flood has struck the picturesque Wye River, a beloved beach town along Victoria's Great Ocean Road. This natural disaster has left a trail of destruction, with three vehicles swept out to sea and a popular campground submerged.
The impact of the flood extends beyond Wye River. Caravan parks along the Great Ocean Road, including those at Carlisle River and Cumberland River, are being evacuated. Lorne Foreshore caravan park has also joined the list of affected areas. As of 3 pm, the Great Ocean Road is closed in both directions between Skenes Creek and Wye River, and a staggering 6,500 homes in the region are without power.
Social media footage and reports received by local media outlets paint a grim picture. Videos show cars being carried into the ocean by the powerful floodwaters. Further footage from the Big4 holiday park reveals sections of the park underwater, with rapid flooding causing widespread damage.
Wye River, a popular beach destination roughly 150 kilometers from Melbourne, is no stranger to natural disasters. In a tragic turn of events, the river broke its banks around 1 pm on Thursday, catching campers off guard.
Rebecca Scott, a Melbourne woman camping at the Big4 park with her daughter, described the terrifying moment when the water suddenly rose. "It was like a scene from a disaster movie," she said. "We had to act fast, unplug everything, and try to save what we could."
Scott's experience was a chaotic one. She had to abandon her tent, bedding, and camp kitchen as the park's playground turned into a reservoir. "It was a race against time," she recalled. "We saw campsites submerged, and people running in shock towards their tents."
Eventually, Scott's escape route was blocked by the rising water at the park's gates. With no other option, she left her vehicle behind and evacuated on foot to the nearby Wye River pub.
Michelle Mackenzie, a holidaymaker in Lorne who witnessed the flooding at the Wye River pub, described a scene of chaos. "Eskies and chairs were being washed away," she said. "The pub was packed with people evacuated from the campgrounds."
Mackenzie confirmed the alarming news: "There are now three cars out at sea."
The weather bureau recorded a staggering 166mm of rain in the Mt Cowley area in the hours since 9 am on Thursday. Residents have been advised to park their cars undercover and away from trees, and to check in with family and neighbors.
The State Emergency Service (SES) has issued a stark warning, emphasizing the rapid rise of floodwater and the increased risk of landslides in the Otways due to heavy rainfall. Drivers have been urged to avoid entering floodwater and to call Triple Zero (000) in life-threatening emergencies.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the power and unpredictability of nature. As the situation continues to unfold, we await further updates and hope for the safety and well-being of those affected.
