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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)
Last on
Sat 27 May 202302:50GMT
BBC World Service except Australasia
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- Fri 26 May 202307:50GMTBBC World Service
- Fri 26 May 202311:50GMTBBC World Service
- Fri 26 May 202317:50GMTBBC World Service except East and Southern Africa & West and Central Africa
- Fri 26 May 202321:50GMTBBC World Service East and Southern Africa & West and Central Africa only
- Sat 27 May 202302:50GMTBBC World Service except Australasia
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