An emergency warning has been issued as flash flooding inundates a popular Victorian holiday hotspot, sweeping dozens of cars out to sea.
Holidaymakers and locals in Wye River, Kennett River, Cumberland River and Lorne have been forced to scramble to high ground, as record rainfall lashes the area.
Roads have been flooded, including the famed Great Ocean Road, which is closed in both directions between Fairhaven and Skenes Creek.
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"If you are located in Wye River, Kennett River, Cumberland River, Lorne and surrounds, you are in danger," the VicEmergency warning read.
"You should immediately move indoors and shelter, away from floodwater.
"Do not enter floodwater".
Dozens of cars, tents and other camping supplies have been swept out to sea in fast-moving rapids from Cumberland River.
It is not known whether the flooded vehicles are all empty.
Homes and buildings have also been flooded, the State Emergency Service said.
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Mt Cowley, near Lorne, has been lashed with 166mm of rain since 9am, including more than 45mm in one hour earlier today.
Campers at nearby caravan parks have been seen quickly packing their belongings as the storm bears down on the region.
Motorists are urged to avoid the area.
V/Line coach services that normally run along the Great Ocean Road are detouring inland, and will skip Kennet River and Wye River stops.
Four police helicopters have been sent to assist with evacuations and rescues as locals and holidaymakers scramble to safety.
The SES has received 17 calls for assistance.
Authorities have warned landslides could occur as a result of the flooding.
The flash flood zone is about 75km east of two fires still burning in the Otways.
The severe thunderstorm is expected to spread across to the Central and West and South Gippsland districts later this evening.
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