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Survivors Say Staff Cleared Torres del Paine Trek Before Blizzard That Killed Five

CONAF confirms rangers were off duty for mandatory voting, prompting a review of safety protocols.

Overview

  • Five hikers died, including British tourist Victoria Bond, 40, along with two Mexicans and two Germans.
  • A sudden storm with winds reported up to 120mph hit the remote circuit, with nine initially missing and four later rescued.
  • Survivors say camp staff told them the forecasted conditions were normal and to proceed despite concerns.
  • Hikers dispute suggestions the victims were off-trail and say GPS data shows most were on the path when the storm struck.
  • With no rangers on duty that night, about 30 volunteers improvised rescues as CONAF pledged a review of safety and communication procedures.