Two mountain climbers have died in a devastating avalanche that swept them into a freezing lagoon.
Magdalena Acuña Jiménez, 56, and Rodrigo Peña Troncoso, 36, were among a group of seven mountaineers caught by the snowslide during a private expedition.
Three people lost their lives and four others were injured in the sudden disaster on Saturday afternoon (17 Oct).
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Rescue teams recovered Magdalena and Rodrigo’s bodies while the third remains trapped under the water.
Over 40 personnel from multiple agencies took part before the operation was suspended due to the risk of further avalanches.
Acuña was the daughter of well-known actress Luz Jiménez, while Peña was a landscape photographer and keen mountaineer.
Both were members of the Andino Club Pamir, who said they stood out for their sporting spirit and companionship.
“We deeply regret the passing of our dear members Magdalena and Rodrigo,” the club said in a statement.
“We send our support and condolences especially to their families, loved ones and our members.”
The group had set out towards Cerro Los Tres Hermanos near the Portillo ski centre in the Chilean Andes.
They were struck by the avalanche at around 2.45pm at Laguna del Inca and swept into the icy lake.
Club officials said the three victims had already decided to return to their vehicles because of the worsening conditions.
Los Andes mayor Manuel Rivera said clear warning signs marked the area as a “death zone” and an avalanche risk.
One sign read: “Do not pass. Danger of death. Avalanche zone. Landslide zone.”
The Portillo security chief had also warned the experienced climbers not to proceed at that hour, as reported by Need To Know.
The four survivors were treated for hypothermia and later discharged with no serious injuries.
Search efforts for the remaining body have been paused until Thursday because of thick ice, adverse weather and the risk of further avalanches.
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