Swiss Village Devastated by Glacier Collapse
A massive landslide triggered by a glacier collapse in the Swiss Alps has buried the village of Blatten, located in the Valais canton. The event occurred after the evacuation of the village's 300 residents.
Details of the Disaster
A significant section of the Birch Glacier broke apart, sending approximately 9 million tons of ice, mud, and rock cascading down the mountainside. The resulting landslide engulfed nearly 90% of Blatten.
Immediate Aftermath
One person is currently missing, and authorities warn that the recovery process could take years. The landslide registered as a 3.1 magnitude earthquake, highlighting the scale of the event.
Ongoing Concerns
Emergency teams are closely monitoring a blocked riverbed, which presents a significant risk of ice jams and potential flooding. Authorities haven't ruled out further evacuations. The Swiss Army is assisting with debris removal using specialized equipment.
Background
The glacier had been moving steadily toward the Lötschental Valley, reaching speeds of up to 11 feet per day in recent weeks. Prior to the collapse, a precautionary evacuation was carried out, saving 52 livestock animals.
Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter conveyed her condolences, emphasizing the emotional toll of losing one's home.
