Andina

Avalanche on Huascaran: Visits, expeditions to snow-capped mountain suspended

12:58 | Lima, Jun. 22.

The Regional Emergency Operations Center in Ancash region (COER-Ancash) has suspended all visits and expeditions to the snow-capped mountain of Huascaran (in Yungay province) as a preventive measure, following two avalanches on Tuesday, June 20.

Fernando Zevallos, head of Ancash's Regional Directorate of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Dircetur), noted that the preventive measure was taken to avoid risks, even though no harm to tourists has been reported due to the avalanches.

In statements to Andina news agency, the Dircetur representative affirmed that the suspension decision was made right after the natural event struck in the area.

The flow of snow triggered widespread fear at the beginning, but has not harmed people, tourists, or houses, according to reports that have so far been released by COER and all involved regional organizations.

"The civil defense regional system was activated —on a permanent basis— after the avalanches were reported. Therefore, trips of tourists to Huascaran have been suspended," he pointed out.

Zevallos remarked that the area, known as Northern Peak, has a history of avalanches; therefore, expeditionary groups do not go there, but to the Southern Peak area.


In this case, the suspension applies to all groups and expeditions of tourists to Huascaran.

For this reason, a statement was released explaining and determining why this measure —regarding the expeditions to Huascaran and surrounding areas— has been taken: as safety and preventive measures.
 
(END) JCB/MAO/RMB

Published: 6/22/2023