Severe snow triggers rescue operations in Chile and Argentina

Severe winter weather has led to successful rescue operations for individuals isolated by heavy snow in South American mountainous regions.

In Chile, two Bolivian Customs officials were rescued after being stranded for five days at a border complex near Hito Cajón. The El Loa Provincial Presidential Delegation coordinated the effort, utilizing Ministry of Public Works machinery to clear snow-blocked paths. The officials were evacuated to the Chilean Hito Cajón complex, where medical evaluations confirmed they were in good health.

In Argentina, a couple was rescued in the Neuquén province after being isolated for more than 20 days in the rural Hiahuin Colo area. After land vehicles were blocked by snow accumulations of up to 70 centimeters, authorities utilized a provincial medical flight to reach the pair. The 73-year-old man received urgent medication provided by the Neuquén Emergency and Interoperability System (SIEN) during the operation.