TL;DR
The village of Blatten in Switzerland's Valais canton has been evacuated due to significant landslide risk. Ongoing geological instability and recent rockfalls have forced authorities to take immediate action to ensure residents' safety.
Swiss Village Evacuated as Landslide Threat Grows
The small mountain village of Blatten in Switzerland's southern Valais canton has been evacuated due to a growing landslide threat. Local authorities made the decision after observing accelerating geological movement on the slope above the village. The evacuation, which took place on Saturday evening, affected 92 residents and 16 guests, all of whom were safely relocated.
Recent data from monitoring systems has shown that the mountainside above Blatten has become increasingly unstable. Officials reported that the affected slope has sunk by several metres, with large cracks forming in the terrain. Ongoing rockfalls and ground movement continue to be recorded in the area.
The Birch Glacier, located below the recent rockfall site, has been under observation for decades. On Saturday, falling rocks hit the glacier, causing a debris flow that stopped about 500 metres above the River Lonza, just outside Blatten. Experts believe that snowmelt at higher elevations may have contributed to the destabilisation of the slope.
Local authorities have implemented safety measures to protect residents and visitors. The road between Ried and Blatten remains open during the day but is closed overnight as a precaution. Officials have stressed the importance of complying with safety measures and avoiding the evacuated areas.
The situation in Blatten remains uncertain, with authorities continuously monitoring the slope and reassessing conditions. The evacuation perimeter may be adjusted based on new data. Despite the challenges, the first night after the evacuation was reported to be calm, with all evacuees finding suitable accommodation.While Blatten is not primarily known as a ski resort, the nearby Belalp ski area is a popular destination for skiers and riders. The current geological instability serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of mountain environments and the importance of safety measures in alpine regions.
