February 2, 1994

The Widening Ozone Hole

Scientists see no `immediate' radiation threat to humans in Antarctica, but one researcher says, `Just wait'

By Kim A. McDonald

Punta Arenas, Chile -- The wind blows relentlessly. day and night, it wails like a banshee, sending clouds of debris racing along the streets of this remote Chilean town and transforming cloudbursts into stinging sheets of sleet and rain.

Here at the tip of South America in the southern-most city of the world, harsh weather is a fact of life. Cloudy skies, frequent downpours, and strong winds are typical throughout the year. Spring brings occasional breaks in the gloomy weather. But