Massive Storm Hits the Andes

Over the last few days the Andes of Chile & Argentina have been pounded by a huge snow storm. The roads to Portillo and Valle Nevado near to Santiago have both been closed preventing access to these key Chilean ski resorts.
The road to Portillo was shut at the normal holding point near to Los Andes where as Valle Nevado was shut a few miles short of the resort where the road forks from the main Farellones road. Access to La Parva & El Colorado has been possible.
With clearer weather forecast until at least the weekend all access are expected to be open again today.
Portillo are currently reporting on their website the road being closed.
Valle Nevado report the access road as being open.
(at 4.50 am Santiago time)

Las Araucarias Shuts as Volcan Llaima Erupts

Llaima Volcano has erupted and for safety reasons closed Las Araucarias ski resort in central Chile. The resort is famous for it's Araucaria trees and spectacular setting on the slopes of 'Volcan Llaima' in Conguillío National Park.
Not an immediate threat to residents of the area the lava flow is heading towards the direction of the Calbuco River.
The lava flow stretched over 2km and was 50 metres wide.
The last eruption was at the start of 2008 and there has been no significant activity between then and now.
There is no threat to other ski resorts although if the ash cloud increases it could affect air travel into Concepcion or Temuco airports.

Valle Nevado Road Schedule

Note: For safety reasons, the Chilean Police department restricts the use of the access road to the Mountains throughout the ski season. Below are outlined the restrictions:
Monday – Friday (except holidays)
Ascent and descent throughout the day.
Saturday, Sundays, and holidays
Only ascents from 8:00 – 14:00
Only descents from 16:00 – 20:00
No restriction from 20:00 until next morning 8:00 AM.

Iberia New Baggage Allowances

Hold Baggage Allowance

Europe to Argentina Economy 2 pieces x 23 kg (each) Business Class 3 pieces x 23 kg (each)
Europe to Chile Economy 23 kg Business Class 30 kg

Each individual item checked in may not exceed 158 cm (calculated by adding length+width+height), with the exception of special items of luggage.
Please note this is only applicable to journeys to which the piece system applies.

Although we can accept no liability, in our experience sports equipment counts as special equipment. Please check with the airline.
Full article here ... Iberia Luggage Allowances