The Crumbling Majesty: Climate Change's Impact on Chile’s El Plomo Mountain

Chile's El Plomo mountain, a 5,400-meter Andean peak, is crumbling due to climate change. Rising temperatures have caused glaciers to retreat and permafrost to melt, leading to landslides, sinkholes, and other geological changes. Local muleteers and mountain guides, who have worked on the mountain for generations, are witnessing unprecedented environmental shifts.

On clear days, Chile's towering 5,400-meter El Plomo mountain is visible from Santiago. Climbers, following ancient Inca paths, are now facing challenges due to climate change. Rising temperatures have caused glaciers to retreat, permafrost to melt, and landslides to become more frequent.

Local muleteer Francisco Gallardo, who has worked on El Plomo since he was 14, noted that the mountain's conditions are worsening rapidly. The once-glacial final ascent is now a rocky hillside. "Every year there's more sadness," he told Reuters, predicting his family will need to relocate within a decade.

The Andean peaks, important for the region's water cycle, are seeing unprecedented changes. Scientists like Pablo Wainstein confirm these patterns align with predictions. With tropical glaciers highly susceptible to climate change, the Andes' rapidly disappearing ice threatens water supplies, agriculture, and hydroelectric power.

(With inputs from agencies.)