Deaths linked to cold winter weather in South America; losses mount at cattle ranches

Harsh winter weather kills dozens in South America

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — A cold front across much of South America is being linked to dozens of deaths, mounting losses for cattle ranchers and other hardships.

At least 26 people have died in Argentina from exposure, carbon monoxide inhalation from heaters and other weather-related causes.

Subfreezing temperatures have been reported in the country’s normally temperate northern region.

Across the Andes in the Chilean capital of Santiago, homeless people are taking shelter in a sports stadium after one died of exposure. Heavy snow has cut off access to communities in the southern province of Aysen.

Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay also are experiencing unusually cold weather. July is the dead of winter in the Southern Hemisphere.