BREAKING: Eight dead and several hospitalised after boat CAPSIZES on lake in Missouri

The Southern Stone County Fire Protection District described the event as a “mass casualty incident” on Thursday.

The incident occurred at Table Rock Lake in Stone County, Missouri, and involved the ‘Ride the Ducks’ vessel.

Doug Rader, Stone County sheriff, said there were 31 adults and children aboard the boat when it capsized.

He noted the incident occurred at 7pm local time (1am BST) when severe thunderstorms and winds of up to 60mph battered the lake.

Seven people are being treated in hospital and search operations are still underway to locate the remaining individuals.

Mr Rader commented on the rescue operation, stating: “It will be a challenging night and into tomorrow.”

He noted the weather conditions are believed to have caused the boat to capsize.

The official added that family members of the missing individuals should report to Branson City Hall.

A dive team is currently assisting with the rescue operation.

Steve Linderberg, meteorologist at the National Weather Service, stated that top wind speeds of 63mph were recorded at Branson Airport at 7pm local time (1am BST).

He noted winds may be even stronger over the lake, adding: “There’s nothing to slow down winds in an open area.”

Captain Jim Pulley, owner of Sea Tow Table Rock Lake, said the boat capsized a short distance behind the Showboat Branson Belle, a riverboat for entertainment and dining attached to the dock.

He said: “Western Taney County has got divers in the water where the Duck boat went down.

“The Ducks have a ramp access where they put in, and when the wind hit it pushed the boat right square behind the Branson Belle.”

Mike Parson, the Governor of Missouri, expressed his sadness on Twitter after receiving news of the incident.

He said: “Very sad to hear about this horrible accident.

“Prayers for all those involved and the first responders who are assisting.”