Home / Disasters and Accidents / Patagonia Blizzard: Hikers Feared Death in 120mph Winds
Patagonia Blizzard: Hikers Feared Death in 120mph Winds
20 Nov, 2025
Summary
- Blizzard with 120mph winds hit Torres del Paine nature reserve.
- A British woman and four other tourists tragically died.
- A friend described the terror and belief they would all perish.
Tragic events unfolded in Chile's Torres del Paine nature reserve when a severe blizzard, featuring winds up to 120mph, engulfed trekkers. Five individuals, including 40-year-old Victoria Bond from Cornwall, tragically lost their lives amid the extreme weather that plunged the famed park into chaos.
Chris Aldridge, a friend of Bond and a film director, shared his terrifying ordeal. He described the relentless snow and biting cold, admitting he frequently thought they would perish. The group, ill-equipped for the sudden whiteout conditions, made the perilous decision to turn back from their ascent, facing icy descents and near-zero visibility.
Compounding the tragedy, park rangers were unavailable due to a general election, necessitating a makeshift rescue effort by fellow hikers and volunteers. Despite the profound loss and harrowing experience, a spirit of mutual aid and compassion emerged among those present.
