Tragedy Strikes in Chilean Wilderness
A British woman has been confirmed among five tourists who lost their lives during a devastating snowstorm in Chile's Patagonia region. The tragedy unfolded in the renowned Torres del Paine National Park, where rescue teams battled extreme weather conditions to reach the victims.
Rescue Operation Amid Extreme Conditions
The bodies were recovered on Tuesday 18th November 2025 after search teams confronted intense snowfall and hurricane-force winds reaching speeds of up to 118 mph. According to Jose Antonio Ruiz, the presidential delegate of the Magallanes region in southern Chile, the victims included the British national, two German citizens and two Mexican nationals.
Despite the challenging conditions, rescue workers managed to locate four survivors during the operation. The regional presidential office expressed gratitude for the efforts of all civilian, military, public and private institutions involved in the difficult search mission.
International Response and Condolences
Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font praised the rescue teams for their tireless work in the face of dangerous weather. In a statement posted on X, he extended his heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of those who perished.
"To the families, friends and loved ones of the five people from Mexico, Germany and the United Kingdom who lost their lives in the incident in Torres del Paine, I send my heartfelt condolences," President Boric wrote, adding that Chilean authorities stand ready to support the affected families.
Officials have confirmed that the search operation has now concluded, with attention turning to repatriating the victims' bodies to their home countries and coordinating with the relevant consulates. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has been contacted for comment regarding the British victim.
Torres del Paine National Park remains one of South America's most popular trekking destinations, known for its stunning mountain landscapes but also for its unpredictable and often dangerous weather patterns that can change rapidly, particularly during the Southern Hemisphere's winter months.
