Overview
- Tom Player says camp staff told hikers conditions were normal after seeing their forecast before they set out on the Circuit O route.
- Five people were confirmed dead, including British tourist Victoria Bond, along with two Mexican and two German hikers.
- Heavy snowfall and winds reported up to 120mph created whiteout conditions that overwhelmed trekkers on the remote trail.
- Player recounts that about 30 volunteers mounted improvised rescue efforts, fashioning a stretcher and aiding hypothermic hikers.
- CONAF confirms rangers were not on duty that night due to mandatory election voting and says it will review park safety and communication rules.