5 of 7 people trapped in flooded Laos cave for more than a week found alive
Five villagers trapped in a flooded cave in central Laos for more than a week were found alive on Wednesday, rescuers said, though two others remain missing.
The group entered a cave in Xaisomboun province on May 19, but heavy rain caused flash flooding that blocked the exit and left seven people trapped, according to Lao and Thai rescue teams involved.
A video posted by a Thai rescue team showed divers emerging from the water and finding the trapped villagers. The footage showed the group sitting on a rock in floodwater, each wearing a headlamp.
Diver leader Mikko Paasi told a reporter from inside the cave that he and his team plan to keep searching for those still missing. For now, he said the priority is getting food and water to the five survivors, which will be difficult. He described them as disoriented and unsure of their location, but otherwise OK.
Paasi said the preferred option would be pumping water out so everyone can walk out, but there are concerns about carbon dioxide buildup in the chamber and whether the survivors are strong enough for a dangerous exit.
Paasi also took part in the 2018 Thailand cave rescue of 12 boys and their soccer coach.
The cave is in a remote, rugged area about 75 miles north of Vientiane. Reaching the entrance requires a steep 2.5-mile hike, and the opening is narrow and rocky. Heavy rain and mountainous terrain have slowed rescue efforts.
Authorities have not confirmed why the villagers entered, though a local rescue volunteer group said it is often visited by people searching for gold despite repeated warnings.
