A devastating collapse of a large section of the Birch glacier in Blatten, Switzerland on May 28, 2025, sent a massive flow of ice, rock, and floodwaters down the mountain slope, burying approximately 90% of the village under debris. The impact prompted an urgent evacuation, leaving around 300 residents without access.
The collapse is linked to thawing permafrost driven by global warming, according to experts. Scientists had observed rock instability weeks before the event, which accelerated erosion and landslides. The landslide created a natural dam blocking the River Lonza, causing water levels to rise rapidly, with estimates suggesting up to one million cubic meters of water accumulating daily.
Authorities have declared a state of emergency, warning of serious flood risks if the unstable debris dam fails. Nearby villages Gampel and Steg have been evacuated as a precaution, while military personnel are ready to assist with equipment and helicopters for damage assessment.
The disaster has left residents in shock, with many describing the scale of destruction as profound. Recovery efforts have just begun, and the community is grappling with the consequences of climate change. The incident highlights growing flood risks from blocked rivers and landslides, emphasizing the need for preparedness and action against natural disasters driven by global warming.
Source: https://indiandefencereview.com/swiss-glacier-collapse-raises-flood-risk