British Tourist Dies in Patagonia Snowstorm
A British woman has been confirmed dead after a catastrophic snowstorm struck the Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia. The woman was one of five tourists who lost their lives in the severe weather event.
Their bodies were discovered on Tuesday, November 18, within the popular tourist destination in southern Chile. The victims have been identified as a British national, two German citizens, and two Mexican citizens, according to Jose Antonio Ruiz, the presidential delegate of the Magallanes region.
Intense Search and Rescue Operation
Search and rescue teams worked under extreme conditions to locate the victims. Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font praised the 'tireless' efforts of the teams, who battled 'intense' snowfall and winds reaching speeds of 118mph.
In a statement on X, formerly Twitter, President Boric expressed his condolences: "To the families, friends, and loved ones of the five individuals of Mexican, German, and British nationalities who tragically lost their lives in the incident that occurred in Torres del Paine, I extend my deepest condolences."
He assured them of the "full support and collaboration of Chilean authorities and institutions during these difficult times."
Aftermath and Repatriation Efforts
Officials have confirmed that the active search for victims has now concluded. Authorities are currently focusing on the process of repatriating the bodies to their home countries and are liaising with the relevant foreign consulates.
In a positive development amidst the tragedy, it is understood that four people were found alive during the operation.
The regional presidential delegation acknowledged the coordinated effort in a Facebook post, stating: "We appreciate the effort of all civilian, military, public, and private institutions that participated in this operation."
A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said: "We are supporting the family of a British woman who has died following an incident in Chile and are in contact with the local authorities."
