Hi Jason,
Here is a link to a survey of the "new" bits...
http://www.keyhole.org.uk/surveys_waterways.asp
Also,as per the access agreement, here is a map on where to park. (Its through a rickety gate in a small clearing)
http://www.keyhole.org.uk/digs_waterways.asp
Flooding....quite a bit of rain last few days, with some rain forecast tomorrow. My opinion (and don't sue me!) is not to descend if its actually raining heavily tommorow night, or looks likes its about to.
The flood situation has changed of late, as a new sink has opened up in the field, making an overflow flood less likely.
The IMPORTANT thing to note is that if you DO get caught in heavy water:-
1) Water does not appear to back up above the floor of Toad Haul, so be above that level and you won't drown
2) The Entrance series and the Scaffolded dig become impassable (and I mean that). Do not try to exit if they are flowing heavily, as that is when you would have an accident/problem. SIT TIGHT in a convenient spot and wait till it stops (a few hours). Trust me on this point, I know....!
3) There is a rescue kit, sweets, chocs box in an ammo tube down there.
You can check weather with me via the forum tomorrow afternoon for more up to date situation.
Other helpful hints:
Belay belt & cowstail required for Toad Haul climb, Its rigged with lifeline, don't need to take harness or ropes or ladders down at all.
Leave tackle bags on the surface if possible, they area pain.
Don't just follow the blue cable, therein lies the path to an epic....take a copy of the survey down! In particular don't follow the obvious downward route from the chamber below the end of Blore Street that the cable takes, it goes via a very bad choke. The way on is a non-obvious drop and crawl at the opposite end of the small chamber. (Shown on the survey as a dog-leg leading to Toad Haul)
Don't climb the skyhooked ladder dangling in Toad Haul, thats not the way....
have a great trip
Andyf
PS the Yew Tree at Cauldon Low is compulsary after cave drinking
