Road worker dies after motor grader plunges into ravine during storm cleanup in Argentina

A road maintenance worker has died in an accident in the southwest of Chubut, Argentina, while clearing snow from a route affected by severe winter weather. The victim, identified as 56-year-old Hugo Fabián Calderero, was operating a motor grader when the machine plunged approximately 50 meters down a ravine.

The incident occurred around 10:45 p.m. on national route 260, near the border with Santa Cruz province. Calderero was working for Servicios Río Mayo, a contractor for Vialidad Nacional, aiming to maintain connectivity to the Huemules international pass. Emergency services, including police and medical personnel, confirmed the victim had no vital signs upon arrival.

Extreme weather conditions, characterized by heavy snowfall, icy roads, and poor visibility, have complicated initial rescue and recovery operations. Preliminary investigations are postponed until daylight. Authorities are examining the circumstances, with initial hypotheses pointing towards the hazardous driving conditions. However, potential mechanical failures or a health issue suffered by the operator are also being considered. The accident happened amidst adverse weather that has seen other vehicles, including two trucks, overturn on the same route recently.