La Paz, Bolivia—Three people are confirmed dead after a passenger boat capsized on Lake Titicaca early Friday. The vessel reportedly encountered sudden, high winds and choppy water while traveling between two lakeside communities.

Local naval authorities launched a search and recovery operation shortly after receiving distress calls. The cold temperatures and depth of the lake hampered the efficiency of the dive teams deployed to the scene.

Survivors managed to reach the shore or were picked up by nearby fishermen who witnessed the incident. Those rescued were treated for hypothermia at a nearby municipal clinic.

Official reports suggest the boat was carrying more people than its rated capacity. Investigators are currently questioning the operator regarding weather warnings and safety equipment on board.

The incident has caused significant alarm among local residents who rely on these small vessels for daily transport across the high-altitude lake. Safety standards for private transit services on the water remain loosely enforced.

Recovery of the remaining debris is ongoing as investigators attempt to determine if mechanical failure played a role in the disaster. The area where the accident occurred is known for unpredictable swells.

Authorities have cautioned that the search for any potentially missing individuals will continue through the weekend. The government is expected to announce stricter maritime transit regulations in the coming days.

The identity of the victims is being verified by forensic staff before details are shared with the families. For now, the focus is on securing the site and documenting the conditions that led to the capsizing.