A forest monk, who took refuge inside a cave in Noen Maprang district of Thailand’s northern province of Phitsanuloke during a pilgrimage, has become trapped by flood waters.

Rescue workers were rushed to Phra Sai Ngarm cave this afternoon (Tuesday), after they received a distress call reporting that the monk had become trapped following heavy rain.

Rescue workers arrived with oxygen tanks, but found the entrance of the cave flooded and the water level steadily rising, making it impossible for them to gain access.

As darkness fell, they suspended the search operation until tomorrow.