Update: Workers trapped in building rubble

Update Video

GEORGE NEWS & VIDEO - According to unconfirmed reports more than 20 construction workers have been busy in the ill-fated building when it collapsed into a pile of building rubble at 14:09 this afternoon.

George Municipal Disaster Services, GRDM, SAPS, and ambulance services are involved in the rescue efforts and going all out to help those trapped under the rubble.

George Municipality ask that members of the public who can provide water, Lucozade, wine gums, or any food for the services on site, must please deliver the contributions via Ivy Street at 79 Victoria St, Delplan Consulting.

A municipal official will be on hand in front of this building to collect and distribute.

Due to the collapse, the adjacent municipal main offices in York Street have been closed as a safety precaution.

Emergency teams from Worcester and Cape Town, as well as a crane from Mossel Bay, are on their way to assist with the rescue effort in George.

Mayor Leon van Wyk says it's going to be a lengthy operation with many safety considerations.

The building seems to have collapsed into its own underground parking area leaving only a small rubble mound visible above ground level.

The George Municipality will provide an update about the disaster and rescue efforts at 18:00 today.

VIDEO: George Herald editor Lizette da Silva spoke to George Mayor Leon van Wyk on the scene where a building collapsed earlier today in Victoria Street. All emergency services are on scene in what is going to be a lengthy rescue.