UPDATED: Emergency services are at the scene of drowning in Welcome Bay this afternoon.

St John Paramedics were called to Kaiate Falls on Waitao Road just after 1pm, a 20-year-old man got into trouble in a swimming hole near the falls.

A 20-year-old man has drowned at Kaiate Falls in Welcome Bay. Photos: Cameron Avery.

Police Northern Communications Inspector Andy Brill confirmed that one person has drowned at the falls this afternoon.

A reporter at the scene says there are two ambulances on the scene, along with multiple police cars and firefighters.

"The car park is completely blocked with the amount of people here. Everyone who is standing around look like they are in shock."

It's unclear exactly what has happened.

People are being asked to stay away from the area to allow emergency services to deal with the scene.

Earlier:

Reports are emerging of a water rescue in Welcome Bay this afternoon.

Emergency services have been called to Kaiate Falls on Waitao Road following reports of a person getting into trouble in the water.

It's unclear exactly what has happened but a St John spokesperson confirms two ambulances have been called to the scene.

SunLive will bring you more information as soon as it is available.