Alto Nevados de Chillán hotel fire

A major fire in the Ñuble Region of Chile destroyed the Alto Nevados de Chillán hotel, an adjacent cafeteria, and several vehicles. High winds, specifically the ‘puelche’ winds, intensified the blaze, which spread from the upper floors to the ski school, restaurant, and equipment rental areas, leaving the hotel building completely destroyed.

Approximately 119 guests and 100 staff members were present during the incident. While all individuals were safely evacuated, many tourists lost personal belongings and documentation, with some reportedly fleeing with only the clothes they were wearing. The fire has caused significant disruption to local activities, including the temporary cancellation of lower-level competitions and forcing international athletes, such as a Slovenian ski team, to seek alternative accommodations.

Presidential delegate Diego Sepúlveda described the hotel as a landmark and a “significant loss” for the local tourist center. Following the incident, the Nevados de Chillán tourist complex began a gradual reopening of non-affected areas, such as the ski center and Valle Hermoso.

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire. Prosecutor Ignacio Córdova stated that investigators from the Carabineros Criminalistics Laboratory (Labocar) and OS9 are working to establish if the blaze resulted from “human action or an electrical failure” or if a crime was committed. The affected area remains restricted to allow for these forensic evaluations.