Portillo ski resort in Chile shut after record snowfall exceeds 5 meters

The Portillo ski resort in the Chilean Andes has been completely closed after an unprecedented snow accumulation of more than five metres (reports cite 5.28 m and later 6.02 m). Heavy snowfall, driven by cold Antarctic air and Pacific moisture, deposited 309 cm in 72 hours, prompting road closures on the Chilean side and the adjacent Argentine access route, and halting lift operations.

Authorities cite heightened avalanche risk and the need for extensive safety inspections, snow removal, and infrastructure clearing before any reopening can be considered. Similar large snowfalls have also been reported at Valle Nevado, affecting multiple ski areas across Chile and Argentina.