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The deadliest glacial avalanche in the world

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

On 31 May 1970, the Huascarán 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 Peña.

(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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