Black Hawk Helicopter Recovers 14 Vehicles After Historic Victoria Flooding
A daring aerial salvage operation utilizing a Black Hawk helicopter has successfully retrieved 14 vehicles swept out to sea following record-breaking flash flooding in Victoria, Australia. The recovery efforts, focused on the Surf Coast region, mark a notable step in the aftermath of torrential rains that caused widespread disruption a week prior.
Authorities initiated the vehicle recovery process on Thursday morning, concentrating on the Wye River adn Cumberland River areas. The Victoria State Emergency Service (SES) confirmed that 12 vehicles were recovered from the Cumberland River and an additional two from the Wye River by midday. All retrieved vehicles have been relocated to a designated car park for further assessment.
The Great Ocean Road, a popular tourist route, experienced a temporary closure between Lorne and Skenes Creek to facilitate the helicopter’s operations. The road reopened early Thursday afternoon, allowing traffic to resume after the Black Hawk completed its task of lifting stranded vehicles from the surf. The entire salvage operation spanned approximately three hours.
“And whilst there has already been two salvaged from the shallow shore break at Wye River,there is another two that we know of in below the surf,” a senior official stated,indicating that recovery efforts may continue. The official also noted the complete disintegration of several caravans submerged underwater. Recovered vehicles are being transported to a secure location for inspection by owners and insurance providers.
The helicopter was secured through marine salvage experts frequently utilized by Parks Victoria for maritime emergencies along the Great Ocean Road. The extreme weather event saw over 178mm of rainfall accumulate in the region within a six-hour period last Thursday, with the Lorne station recording its highest 24-hour rainfall total since record-keeping began in 1884.
The flooding resulted in the displacement of hundreds of residents, and tragically, a child required hospitalization after sustaining injuries. The affected area, a favored destination for holidaymakers, particularly during school breaks, is now focused on recovery.
Fortunately, the Victoria Environment Protection Authority confirmed on Wednesday that water quality in the area has returned to normal levels. While the risk to public health from swimming is considered low, authorities advise individuals involved in cleanup activities to wear protective gear, including gloves, goggles, and rubber boots.
The successful vehicle recovery represents a crucial step in restoring normalcy to the Surf Coast region following the devastating floods.
Why did this happen? Record-breaking rainfall, exceeding 178mm in six hours, caused flash flooding across the surf Coast region of Victoria, Australia, sweeping vehicles into the sea.
Who was involved? The Victoria state Emergency Service (SES), Parks Victoria, marine salvage experts, the Victoria Environment Protection Authority, local authorities, affected residents, and tourists were all involved. The Black Hawk helicopter crew played a critical role in the recovery.
What happened? Fourteen vehicles were swept into the ocean during the floods. A Black Hawk helicopter was deployed to lift and remove the vehicles from the Wye River and Cumberland River. The great Ocean Road was temporarily closed during the operation.
How did it end? The salvage operation successfully recovered 14 vehicles over approximately three hours. The Great Ocean Road reopened, and water quality has returned to normal. Recovery efforts are ongoing for additional vehicles,and the region is now focused on broader flood recovery.
