Rescue teams in Laos have pulled a survivor from a flooded cave where a group of foreign tourists have been trapped for three days. The breakthrough came after a 14-hour operation involving divers from multiple nations. British search and rescue specialists remain on standby at the scene, ready to assist if conditions worsen.
The survivor, a 28-year-old Swedish woman, was found in a small air pocket about half a mile from the cave entrance. She was hypothermic but conscious. It is unclear how many others remain trapped. The cave system, known for sudden flash floods, has been a popular destination for adventure tourists.
Local officials have not confirmed the number of people missing. Unofficial reports suggest between eight and twelve individuals from Europe and North America. The rescue operation is being coordinated by the Lao Ministry of Public Security with support from international teams.
British specialists from the International Search and Rescue (ISAR) group have been deployed to the site. They are equipped with advanced sonar and underwater communication gear. A Foreign Office spokesperson said: “We are in close contact with the Lao authorities and ready to provide any further assistance needed.”
Relatives of the trapped tourists have gathered in the nearby village of Luang Prabang, waiting for news. One father, from Manchester, said: “It’s a nightmare. We just want them out.”
The cave flooded yesterday after heavy monsoon rains raised the underground water level by more than two metres. Divers have been navigating narrow, silt-filled passages. The rescued woman was brought out by a team of Thai and Australian cave divers. She was taken to hospital in Luang Prabang with non-life-threatening injuries.
Rescue efforts continue this morning. But officials warn that rising water could hinder further rescues. The head of the Lao rescue team said: “We are working as fast as we can. The situation inside is very unstable.”
For the families waiting outside, every minute feels like an hour. They watch the mouth of the cave, hoping for another head to break the surface.
