How do the Ayseninos prepare for a long and harsh winter?
Winter brings frost, snow and cold to the Aysén region, and the best way to overcome it is with shelter and warmth from home. Thus, the best artisans have created artistic works based on the seasons of the year. And so, the main thing is to get the best shelter, for example with good quality textiles with which blankets are made, or cushions with sheep's wool. Other artisans design ceramic dishes that keep food warm.
Autumn is already beginning in Chile, and Aysén is preparing to change its leaves for winter. The months of April and May continue to be ideal for traveling the Carretera Austral, thanks to the beauty that prevails in every corner, in every forest of Patagonia. There are some that are characteristic, like that of the Cerro Castillo national park, a Nothofagus forest that shows us its multiple shades during the coming months.
But after this period of generous weather, few tourists and low prices, comes a harsher season in Aysén, winter. And the appearance of snow, rain and frost poses no small challenge to the territory and its inhabitants, that of preparing to be more confined and to be able to maintain heat in their homes and protect their animals and plantations.
Heating the house, the primary task
One of the first tasks to carry out for winter is to acquire the wood necessary to heat the houses. For this reason, the Ayseninos collect enough firewood from fallen trees, stacking the required amount to keep their homes warm while snow falls outside. It is important to store firewood in such a way that it can stay dry. Nowadays, there are many Patagonians who are also opting for the pellet heating method.
For those who have greenhouses and plant their own fruits and vegetables, it is important to take care of good maintenance to ensure that food is fresh for the colder months. Following the line of food, it is common to see that the Ayseninos stock up on forest fruits that grow wild in the region, such as murta and calafate, from which they can produce jam, liqueurs and desserts, among others.
Regarding safety measures for those who drive, preparation is also key. Regarding the basic equipment that a vehicle must carry in winter, the authorities clarify that it is always important to carry a reflective vest, chains in case there is snow and ice on the roads, the fire extinguisher, chocks, plan the route, check the weather reports. delivered by the authority and avoid traveling in case of traffic or other danger.
Therefore, the next time we find ourselves enjoying the warmth of a fireplace in a cabin, or enjoying a delicious calafate jam in the middle of July, we will know that hard work and a lot of planning were required for that to happen.
Categorías - People - History