Update issued on Ash Dykes after explorer 'vanishes' while travelling through remote Congo Basin

Ash Dykes and his team are safe, following a concerning communications blackout.

Sharing the update on Instagram, a member of the explorer's team confirmed that contact had been made with Dykes, who is currently travelling through the remote Congo Basin.

The team explained that the 35-year-old had temporarily lost contact due to a drop in Starlink satellite connection.

"The Starlink is out and their power bank has died, there’s no way for them to send videos or updates, they can only send short messages whenever they get signal on the Garmin," read the update.

Read the full update below:

Dykes' team previously raised concerns about his welfare after revealing that his team hadn't heard from him in the past 16 hours.

The explorer is currently partaking in a 434-mile kayak trip through the Congo Basin as part of his 'Project Six' expedition series, which sees him travel through six different extreme environments.

Previous journeys have seen Dykes solo-trek across Mongolia and walk along China's Yangtze River.

His journey through the Congo Basin has drawn particular attention online, due to the risks associated with travelling along the remote river.

According to Discover Magazine, the Congo River is home to various predators such as crocodiles, hippos, and snakes – all of which pose a threat to Dykes and his team.

There is also a risk of picking up Malaria and Yellow Fever from mosquitoes, as well as diseases from water-borne parasites.

Combine this with the Congo Basin's remote rainforest location, and getting treatment provides further medical and logistical difficulties.

Dykes has spoken openly about the risks he and his team face travelling through the Congo Basin, telling UNILAD that he was prepared for the worst-case scenario.

"I've mentally prepared by visualising the absolute worst-case scenario," he said. "I've studied it. I've looked at other people who have been attacked, what they did and the different methods they used."

He also confirmed that his team would be well prepared for the expedition, packing necessary medication such as antibiotics and anti-malaria pills alongside strategising the best ways not to startle the local wildlife.

"I think I'm going to fall in love with the Congo," he added. "I predict that when I come back, I'll have all these rich stories and experiences, and most likely, will want to come back in the future."

LADbible has reached out to Ash Dykes' team for comment.