Flash flooding hits Victoria’s Great Ocean Road as cars washed out to sea | Victoria

People have been urged to find shelter after a severe storm caused flooding, closed a key tourism route and swept cars into the sea.

An emergency warning has been issued for the Wye, Kennett and Cumberland rivers in the Lorne region on Victoria’s south-west coast on Thursday afternoon after thunderstorms dumped more than 170mm of rain on the area.

A video posted on social media showed the 4WD being pulled away by a strong current as spectators watched from high ground.

The scenic Great Ocean Road was closed in both directions from Skenes Creek Road in Skenes Creek to Hird Street in Lorne, with only emergency services allowed through.

The local Foodworks grocery store in Lorne was forced to close its doors until further notice due to flash flooding as people were urged to avoid the area.

The Bureau of Meteorology issued a warning at noon on Thursday that heavy showers could lead to flash flooding in the next few hours.

More than 175mm of rainfall was observed at nearby Mount Crowley from six hours to 3pm.

Lorne Community House opened its doors to anyone who needed shelter to escape these conditions.