By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Two South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers were swept away by strong water currents on Christmas Day in Mpumalanga.
Fullview learnt that SANDF soldiers were swept away after attempting to cross a flooded bridge while conducting border patrols near Macadamia military base.
Rescue teams were immediately deployed. Hours later, the body of one soldier was recovered, while the search continues for the second member, who is still missing.
An extensive rescue operation is expected to continue tomorrow, with the SAPS Diving Rescue Unit working alongside the SANDF. An Oryx helicopter has been deployed to assist in the search as efforts intensify to locate the missing soldier.
The SANDF has confirmed the incident and extended condolences to the affected family.
SANDF Deputy Chief of Joint Operations Major General René Mercuur says the force is in the process of contacting the families of two soldiers who were swept away.
SA Weather Services (SAWS) has issued a yellow level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms with heavy downpours in Gauteng, the western part of Limpopo, in places in North West, and the Mpumalanga Escarpment and Highveld.
Expect flooding of susceptible roads, settlements and low-lying bridges or areas, excessive lightning and large amounts of small hail.