A major rescue operation took place after two young individuals became trapped underground in a flooded chamber at a slate mine in Eryri. The incident occurred at the Croesor-Rhosydd slate mine near Blaenau Ffestiniog, prompting emergency services to respond to the scene. Initially, three people had entered the mine, but two of them ended up trapped on opposite sides of the flooded chamber, with one falling into deep water within the mine, according to reports from North Wales Live.
The North Wales Cave Rescue Organisation (NWCRO) was called in to assist the Aberglaslyn Mountain Rescue Team (AMRT) in the six-hour rescue operation. The NWCRO spokesperson revealed that they received a 999 call before 5 pm, alerting them to the situation at the slate mine. The rescue teams had to employ caving experience, equipment, and ropework techniques to reach the trapped individuals safely.
The rescue operation involved members from various locations, including Chester and Holyhead, with a total of 17 NWCRO team members contributing over 150 team hours. The joint effort with AMRT ensured the successful extraction of the two trapped youngsters from the underground chamber. Additionally, the Welsh Ambulance Service Trust (WAST) provided support during the operation.
This incident is not the first time individuals have faced challenges at the Croesor-Rhosydd slate mine. Previous incidents have prompted cave rescuers to advise explorers to be adequately prepared when navigating the old mine shafts. In a past occurrence reported by North Wales Live, two people had become stranded while exploring the quarry’s subterranean lake.
The successful rescue operation highlighted the importance of collaboration between rescue teams and the necessity for proper equipment and expertise when engaging in such activities. The individuals trapped at the slate mine were brought to safety, thanks to the efforts of the dedicated rescue teams involved in the operation.