The deadliest glacial avalanche in the world - a podcast by BBC World Service

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)

Further episodes of Witness History

Further podcasts by BBC World Service

Website of BBC World Service