Glacier Collapse Destroys 90% of Blatten Village, Swiss Army Warns of Flood Risk

A massive collapse of the Birch Glacier in Switzerland's Wallis region caused a deluge of ice, mud, and rock to engulf approximately 90% of the Alpine village of Blatten, home to 300 residents who had been evacuated earlier due to the impending danger. The disaster buried most of the village under debris, leaving only a few roofs visible, and left residents devastated, with some still searching for a missing man amid the wreckage. Authorities and the Swiss Army are closely monitoring the situation, particularly the risk of flooding caused by debris blocking the River Lonza, which has led to a swelling lake behind the natural dam formed by the rubble. Experts warn the debris deposit is unstable, complicating intervention efforts and raising concerns about possible overflow and debris flows. The event is seen by scientists as a stark example of climate change impacts on the Alps, highlighting the increasing risks of glacier-related disasters. Residents and officials continue to assess the aftermath and the ongoing threat posed by the unstable debris and accumulating water.