A tree lopper is dead after being electrocuted by power lines in Melbourne’s south east.

The man, aged in his early 20s, is understood to have worked as a tree lopper and came into contact with power lines while up a tree in Chesterville Road, Highett around 12.55pm.

The accident has prompted power outages in the area and a large emergency services response has created traffic problems.

Emergency workers, including Victoria Police, Metro Fire Brigade and Ambulance Victoria are at the scene.

Fire crews extinguished a blaze in the trees emergency workers are currently working to recover the body.

An MFB spokesman said workers from the power company are on the scene.

A VicRoads spokesman said Chesterville Road was completely closed between Bernard and Argus Streets, while traffic lights were out at Wickham, Keys and Cochrans roads. The roads were still closed at 3.30pm.

Motorists are encouraged to use alternative routes if possible.