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The deadliest glacial avalanche in the world

On 31 May 1970, the HuascarΓ΅n avalanche, caused by the Ancash earthquake, destroyed the town of Yungay, in Peru.

On 31 May 1970, the HuascarΓ΅n avalanche, caused by the Ancash earthquake, destroyed the town of Yungay, in Peru.

Only 400 people, out of a population of 18,000, survived.

A clown, named Cucharita, saved approximately 300 children, who were at a circus performance, by leading them to higher ground.

Rachel Naylor speaks to his son, Christian PeΓ±a.

(Photo: Statue of Christ at the cemetery overlooking Yungay, after the avalanche. Credit: Science Photo Library)

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9 minutes

Last on

Sat 27 May 2023 02:50GMT

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  • Fri 26 May 2023 07:50GMT
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  • Sat 27 May 2023 02:50GMT

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