A severe snowstorm claimed the lives of five foreign tourists in Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park, one of Patagonia’s most remote and scenic destinations. The storm brought winds exceeding 190 km/h (120 mph) and heavy snowfall, creating near-whiteout conditions that made rescue efforts extremely difficult.
The fatalities included two Mexicans, two Germans, and a British woman. Four other members of the group survived and were rescued. Authorities reported that the group was trekking near Los Perros camp, approximately a four- to five-hour hike from the nearest vehicle access point.
Chilean authorities, working alongside local rescue teams and the military, are coordinating the evacuation of the bodies a challenging operation due to the harsh weather and rugged terrain. The government is also liaising with foreign consulates to repatriate the deceased.
President Gabriel Boric expressed his condolences and praised the “heroic efforts” of the rescue teams. Officials have announced an investigation into the tragedy, focusing on park safety measures and weather monitoring systems.
Torres del Paine’s O Circuit, where the incident occurred, is known for its stunning landscapes but also for its unpredictable weather, particularly during the late spring and early summer months. Experts say the storm intensified rapidly, catching the group off guard in a remote area with limited access.
This tragedy underscores the risks faced by hikers in Patagonia, where weather conditions can change abruptly, even in the most popular trekking routes. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.
