The Middelburg Observer received a report shortly after 18:00 this evening that a person had drowned in the Klein Olifants River near Asalia Street below the Kees Taljaard Sports Complex.

Upon the journalist’s arrival, the Middelburg Fire Department had just left the scene to search further down river.

A first responder admitted that a drowning was reported to authorities, but no body could be located.

The banks of the Klein Olifants River is currently heavily crowded by visitors enjoying the outdoors.

Bystanders informed first responders that the person was at the flooded low water bridge of Koppie Street and was reportedly taken by the strong currents.

The body has not been located and emergency services have left to extend the search downstream.

Residents were cautioned earlier today that a sluice gate at Middelburg Dam was opened after an intake of more than 700mm was reported.

An overflowing Kruger Dam also caused widespread flooding in Groenkol, Middelburg South, Mineralia and Eastdene.

Low-lying areas are heavily waterlogged and residents are urged to remain safe and avoid the affected areas and riverbanks.

Rudi van Wyk, a resident of Middelburg shared aerial photos of the flooding Kruger Dam.