What's happened
On May 28, 2025, a massive rock, ice, and mudslide from the Birch glacier struck the Lötchental valley in Switzerland, destroying much of the village of Blatten. A new lake formed from the Lonza River's blockage, prompting evacuations and ongoing monitoring by authorities.
What's behind the headline?
Current Situation
- The Lonza River is now flowing through the debris, with the lake level decreasing by about 1 meter (3.3 feet).
- Authorities are cautiously optimistic but have not declared an all-clear.
Risks and Responses
- Erosion of the debris is slow, which is beneficial for stability.
- The dam downstream at Ferden has been partially opened to manage water flow.
- Evacuations remain a possibility for downstream areas, although risks to other villages are currently low.
Future Implications
- Continued monitoring is essential to prevent further disasters.
- The situation highlights the increasing risks posed by climate change to mountainous regions, necessitating better preparedness and response strategies.
What the papers say
According to The Independent, the glacier collapse has created a new lake, raising concerns about water pooling and potential instability. Geologist Raphaël Mayoraz noted that the river's slow erosion of the debris is a positive sign, stating, "If it is too fast, then there is instability in this channel, and that could lead to small slides of debris." AP News echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the ongoing risk management efforts by local authorities, including the partial opening of a dam to regulate water flow. The regional government remains vigilant, with Blatten's mayor Matthias Bellwald indicating that while the Lonza appears stable, it is still too early to declare safety.
How we got here
The glacier collapse was preceded by concerns about the stability of the region, leading to the evacuation of approximately 300 residents and livestock from Blatten. The event has raised alarms about potential further risks from water pooling above the debris.
Go deeper
- What are the risks of further collapses?
- How are the evacuees being supported?
- What measures are being taken to prevent future disasters?
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Valais (UK: VAL-ay, US: val-AY; French: [valɛ] ), more formally, the Canton of Valais or Wallis, is one of the 26 cantons forming the Swiss Confederation. It is composed of thirteen districts and its capital and largest city is Sion.
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Switzerland, officially the Swiss Confederation, is a country situated in the confluence of Western, Central, and Southern Europe. It is a federal republic composed of 26 cantons, with federal authorities based in Bern.