Local sources from Switzerland: tagesschau.de, RP Online.
UK coverage: Sky News.
In a tragic turn of events, the small mountain village of Blatten, located in the Valais canton of Switzerland, has suffered extensive damage following a glacier collapse. The disaster occurred when a part of the Birch Glacier broke off, unleashing a massive landslide that buried around 90% of the village under thick layers of rock, ice, and debris. The once peaceful village, home to approximately 300 residents, now lies in ruins, with about 130 houses covered under debris that, in places, measures up to 200 meters thick. The catastrophe struck swiftly, leaving the community in shock and grappling with the loss of their homes and possessions. Prior to the disaster, residents were evacuated, yet a 64-year-old man, who chose to stay behind, is currently missing, intensifying the urgency of ongoing rescue efforts. The extensive accumulation of debris from the landslide has also blocked the flow of the River Lonza, creating a dam that poses a significant risk of flooding. Authorities are on high alert, monitoring the situation closely for any signs of water breaching the blockage, which could result in a devastating floodwave threatening not only the remnants of Blatten but also nearby communities. Experts attribute the disaster to a slow-moving landslide from the Kleines Nesthorn mountain, which deposited approximately nine million tons of debris on the glacier, ultimately triggering the collapse. This incident has ignited concerns over the impact of climate change on the stability of permafrost in Alpine regions, highlighting the vulnerabilities faced by communities in the face of natural disasters. In the aftermath, there has been an outpouring of solidarity across Switzerland, with various entities offering support to the victims. This tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the increasing challenges posed by climate change and the importance of preparedness and resilience in mitigating the effects of such disasters. As the community of Blatten begins the long process of recovery, the focus remains on the missing individual and the potential environmental repercussions of the landslide, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and support for those affected.
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