Avalanche on Peru's Huascarán Kills One, Injures Two; Three Missing

An avalanche on Peru's highest mountain, Huascarán (6,768 m), killed one porter and injured two others Thursday, as authorities intensify the search for three mountaineers missing since Tuesday. Source: Clarin, Infobae, Diario Libre

Avalanche Incident

The avalanche struck the Ulta–Pico Mateo sector at about 5,500 meters, according to the Regional Emergency Operations Center (COER). The victim, a porter identified as I.C.A., was part of a group with a foreign tourist and a Peruvian guide, both of whom were wounded and evacuated by helicopter to Huaraz hospital. Source: Clarin, Infobae The body remains at base camp pending legal procedures. Source: Diario Libre

Search for Missing Climbers

Rescuers are searching for Alejandro Ugarte, Freddy Saúl Mendoza, and Artidoro Salas, last in contact between Camp 1 and Camp 2 at over 6,000 meters. Source: Infobae Family members said the climbers had only basic gear and requested drone and helicopter support. Source: Infobae The operation, involving police and air force helicopters, has been complicated by severe weather and dangerous terrain with crevasses and ice slopes. Source: Clarin, Infobae

Response and Criticism

After online criticism, the Association of Mountain Guides of Peru (AGMP) affirmed it has 46 years of rescue experience and is coordinating with authorities. "The priority is to work on the mountain, not attend to social media," said representative Beto Pinto. Source: Infobae A relative of one missing man pleaded for continued efforts, saying it is almost impossible to find them alive but imploring authorities to recover their bodies.