Glacier collapses in Switzerland, river blocked! 2,000 people prepare for evacuation
A massive glacier collapse in Switzerland's Lötschental Valley has blocked the flow of the Lonza River; a natural dam made of stone, ice, and debris has caused water levels to rise rapidly. Evacuation preparations have begun for the towns of Gampel and Steg, while experts have warned of the risk of a sudden flood wave.
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Following a massive glacier collapse in Switzerland's Lötschental Valley, the Lonza River has been blocked by a pile of debris, and authorities have warned local residents to prepare for evacuation.
The flow of the Lonza River has been cut off by a mass of stone, rock, and glacial debris reaching several meters in height.
River water has accumulated behind the blockage, forming a rapidly growing dam lake. It is reported that the water level has risen by up to 3 meters per hour at certain times.
"LOCAL RESIDENTS ARE ON EDGE"
Due to the collapse, the towns of Gampel and Steg, located approximately 20 kilometers downstream from the village of Blatten, are at direct risk. Evacuation preparations are on the agenda for the approximately 2,000 people living in these areas. The municipalities of Steg-Hohtenn and Gampel-Bratsch have urged citizens to be prepared to leave their homes quickly.
Authorities warn that if the natural dam were to suddenly collapse, a massive flood wave or a flow filled with rocks and debris (geröllawine) could occur. Christian Studer from the Valais Canton Natural Hazards Department stated that the dam is extremely unstable and consists of glacier, stone, and loose debris.
No intervention can be made at the disaster site. It is emphasized that the area is extremely dangerous for both people and machinery. For this reason, channel excavation work to allow the water to flow in a controlled manner cannot be carried out.