Flash floods sweep cars into the sea in southeastern Australia
Severe flash flooding struck southeastern Australia on Thursday, inundating large areas and carrying multiple cars into the sea, according to local media reports. Victoria state was particularly affected as heavy rainfall caused widespread flooding across several regions.
Authorities urged residents near Wye River, Kennett River, Cumberland River, and Lorne to seek shelter after a powerful storm cell dumped torrential rain. Social media videos showed vehicles being swept into the ocean and others trapped against bridges or submerged in fast-moving waters.
Floodwaters also entered homes, forcing evacuations. The State Emergency Service (SES) reported no injuries but dispatched crews to assist residents trapped in caravans and to help those reaching higher ground.
Rainfall totals were unprecedented, with some areas receiving over 170 millimeters (6.7 inches) of rain in seven hours, the highest since records began in 2000. "This is a significant weather event … off the charts with respect to records," said SES official Alistair Drayton.
Although the worst of the storm passed by mid-afternoon, authorities warned of possible further rain and urged motorists to avoid flooded roads.
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