Rescue operation begins for Pyrenees potholers trapped underground

A group of Spanish potholers who became trapped in an underground cave have been found alive and well, according to reports on February 10. 

The adventurers were exploring in a French part of the Pyrenees when disaster struck, and initially became trapped when they found themselves unable to exit the cavern because of rapidly rising water levels caused by flooding. 

The seven men were part of a group of 15 who entered the cave, eight of whom were able to escape and alert emergency services of the remaining potholers´ plight in the early hours of February 9. 

Although reports suggest that the seven are still trapped inside the chasm, the French police have confirmed that contact has been established and the men are “safe and sound”.

A rescue operation launched by the Haute-Garonne prefecture is now underway. 

Located in southwest France, the cave is located in Herran which is in the Languedoc-Roussillon-Midi-Pyrenees region. Recent heavy rain is reported to have caused the flooding of several caves in the mountainous area.