Flash Floods Hit Australia’s Victoria State

Severe flash flooding swept across Australia’s Victoria state on Thursday after a powerful storm system triggered torrential rainfall, forcing authorities to shut down the iconic Great Ocean Road and leaving thousands of homes without electricity.

Emergency warnings were issued for towns along the Great Ocean Road, one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations, renowned for its dramatic coastal scenery.

Officials described the situation as extremely dangerous, citing violent thunderstorms and sudden floodwaters, and urged residents to remain indoors and stay clear of flooded areas.

Large sections of the Great Ocean Road were closed in both directions as floodwaters surged through coastal communities. Local media reported that several vehicles were swept into the ocean, highlighting the intensity of the flooding. Power outages affected approximately 6,500 homes across the region.

According to Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology, the Mount Cowley area recorded 166 millimetres of rainfall since 9 a.m. local time, an exceptionally high volume that overwhelmed drainage systems and contributed to rapid flooding.

Authorities continue to monitor conditions as emergency crews assess damage and work to restore power and ensure public safety. The extreme weather event underscores growing concerns over the increasing frequency and severity of intense storms linked to climate volatility in Australia.