Man Lost in Andes Since May Lived on Rats, Raisins

Raul Gomez Cincunegui got lost in snowstorm 4 months ago
By Kate Seamons,  Newser Staff
Posted Sep 9, 2013 8:20 AM CDT
Man Lost in Andes Since May Lived on Rats, Raisins
Snow covers the Andes mountains.   (AP Photo/Juan Karita)

An impressive tale of survival out of Argentina, where a man who spent four months lost in the Andes—during the Southern Hemisphere's winter, no less—has been found, according to local media. Raul Fernando Gomez Cincunegui had crossed from his native Uruguay into Chile, but after his motorcycle broke down he set off on the return voyage on foot, reports the AFP. He ended up instead getting turned around in a snowstorm.

Gomez survived on rats caught using a homemade trap, raisins, and supplies he found in a shelter located some 9,318 feet above sea level, though he is said to have lost 44 pounds in the process, reports the Daily Telegraph. Argentine officials found him in that shelter, which they reached via helicopter, while in the northwestern province of San Juan observing snowfall levels, reports the BBC. Doctors expect to discharge him from the hospital within days. (More survival stories.)

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