Five people stuck in flooded cave in Laos for week found alive, rescuers say
Five people who were stuck in a flooded cave in central Laos for more than a week have been found alive, but two others are still missing, rescuers say.
news.sky.comHere’s the latest on the Laos cave rescue, based on the most recent public reports.
- Five of the seven people trapped in a flooded cave in central Laos were found alive on May 27, 2026, with rescuers continuing to search for the remaining two. This development marks a significant but still fragile moment in the operation, as teams assess the best path to bring everyone out safely.[3][4][9]
- The rescue effort involves local Lao teams with substantial Thai participation, and experts who previously worked on the 2018 Thai cave rescue have joined the mission to assist in ventilation, water management, and safe extraction strategies. International cooperation and specialized equipment (pumps, lighting, and communications) are being deployed to stabilize conditions inside the cave.[2][4][3]
- Media outlets have continued to update the situation daily, noting that two people remain unaccounted for as of the latest briefings, and rescuers emphasize the ongoing need for careful planning to avoid further risk to those inside.[4][9][3]
Key context and likely next steps
- The exposed area and water levels are being actively managed with pumps, divers, and flow controls to maintain breathable air and reduce flood risk, while teams plan safe entry and exit routes for the remaining individuals.[3][4]
- Expect continued briefings in the coming days as teams progress, with status updates on the two missing individuals and any changes to the rescue timeline depending on cave conditions and weather.[4][3]
Illustrative note
- A recent video circulated showing divers entering the water to reach survivors, illustrating the ongoing, high-stakes nature of the operation and the collaboration among Laos, Thailand, and international specialists.[4]
Citations
- Five of seven found alive; two missing; rescue ongoing.[3]
- Thai divers and international experts joining Lao teams; equipment and ventilation measures described.[2][4]
- Ongoing daily updates; status of missing two.[9][3][4]
If you’d like, I can track ongoing developments and provide a concise daily brief with the latest confirmed details and any changes to the rescue plan.