GENEVA, Switzerland — A 64-year-old man is still unaccounted for following a substantial landslide that roared down a mountainside in the Swiss Alps. The disaster occurred Wednesday, resulting in significant debris from the Birch Glacier blanketing the village of Blatten.
Authorities had anticipated potential danger, having evacuated nearly 300 residents and their livestock earlier this month due to concerns about the glacier’s stability. The movement of 1.5 million cubic meters of ice and rock led to extensive damage, with state officials indicating that approximately 90% of the village was impacted, turning homes and structures into a muddy landscape.
The Valais Cantonal Police are actively conducting a search and rescue operation for the missing man, employing drone technology equipped with thermal imaging to assist in the effort. As teams navigate the hazardous conditions, local officials have emphasized the risks posed by the landslide, which has also blocked parts of the nearby Lonza River, raising fears of possible flooding.
Footage circulating on social media and national broadcasts has depicted the extent of the devastation, with buildings partially submerged under a thick layer of brown sludge. While the village had been previously evacuated, the aftermath of the landslide has heightened anxiety surrounding natural disasters exacerbated by climate change.
Swiss glaciologists have raised alarms in recent years regarding the accelerated melting of glaciers across the country, largely attributed to global warming. This phenomenon has been a growing concern, especially in Switzerland, which is home to the most glaciers in Europe. Reports indicate that 2023 has seen a 4% reduction in the country’s total glacier volume, marking the second-highest decline recorded in a single year; 2022 reported a 6% decrease.
Experts continue to monitor the Birch Glacier closely, warning that the ongoing thaw could lead to more incidents as warming temperatures destabilize the icy formations. The situation in Blatten serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate issues and invest in measures to mitigate their impacts.
As the search for the missing man continues, the local community grapples with the physical and emotional toll the landslide has wrought. Authorities remain vigilant, monitoring conditions and preparing for any further developments while hoping for a safe resolution to the ongoing rescue efforts.
