Cerro Panul search continues for missing Colombian hiker

Search operations are underway in Cerro Panul, located in the La Florida commune, to locate Jonnatan Hio Hio, a 32-year-old Colombian citizen who has been missing since Monday. The disappearance occurred after the man began climbing the mountains and subsequently lost contact with his family due to a dead phone battery.

Rescue efforts have been complicated by extreme conditions, including high altitudes exceeding 3,000 meters, low temperatures, and significant snow accumulation. An audio message sent by the missing man prior to losing contact indicated he had suffered a leg injury and was near the Punta de Dama area. This recording has served as a crucial guide for search teams.

The operation involves multiple specialized organizations, including the Carabineros' Special Police Operations Group (GOPE), Socorro Andino, SAR Chile, the Chilean Army, and Senapred. Due to the risks of avalanches and rockslides, authorities are utilizing drones and aerial support to supplement ground searches in difficult terrain. Major Jennifer Muñoz of Carabineros has requested that unauthorized visitors avoid the area to prevent interference with rescue efforts and to avoid creating additional emergencies in the hazardous environment.