Three Herders Found Alive After Storm in Chile's Atacama Region

A successful search operation in Chile's Atacama Region concluded Saturday with the discovery of three herders who had been missing since a severe weather system swept through the mountainous area. The herders were found alive in Alto del Carmen, a commune affected by the recent frontal system.

The search efforts focused on the Quebrada Conay locality. The operation was coordinated by the Investigations Police (PDI), with logistical assistance from a Chilean Air Force (FACh) helicopter. The National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response (Senapred) also provided crucial information.

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By their own decision, they opted to remain in the place where they were found, as they were caring for animals, providing them with food and water.

Authorities initiated the search after a missing person report was filed due to the herders' lack of contact amid extreme weather conditions in the mountains. The local prosecutor's office in Vallenar ordered the initial inquiries.

Patricio Barrios, head of the Atacama Police Region, confirmed the herders' safe location and stated they were in good health. He explained that the herders "chose to remain in the place where they were found, as they were caring for animals, providing them with food and water." Arrangements were immediately made to deliver daily supplies to them, and monitoring of the area continues to ensure their safety during adverse weather conditions.

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In that sense, coordination was immediately made for the daily delivery of supplies to these people while maintaining the exact location of the place, as well as for any eventuality due to the inclement weather that may affect the area.