Mendoza snowstorm rescue operation saves 30 people in high mountains

A historic snowstorm struck the high Andes of Mendoza, depositing more than three metres of snow and creating strong white‑out winds that forced the closure of the Los Libertadores international pass. The severe weather prompted a large‑scale emergency response involving the National Gendarmerie, Mendoza police, municipal guard forces and the national road agency. Rescue teams deployed Hagglunds tracked‑vehicle units and heavy machinery to reach isolated spots along Route 7, evacuating tourists and locals from Puente del Inca, Horcones, Penitentes, Las Cuevas and nearby locations.

Authorities reported that 30 people – including 17 adults and 13 minors – were rescued from the snow‑bound sector. All evacuees were taken to the town of Uspallata and were reported in good health. The storm continues, with forecasts calling for further heavy snowfall and white‑out conditions through the end of July, leading officials to advise against travel on the high‑mountain routes and to maintain heightened alert for additional rescues.

In the broader region, similar snow accumulations forced precautionary evacuations of isolated mountain huts in San Juan and prompted ongoing monitoring by the national meteorological service.