Overview

• A sudden May 28 collapse of about 1.5 million cubic metres of ice, rock and debris from the Birch Glacier engulfed roughly 90% of Blatten under mud and rubble.
• Authorities evacuated Blatten’s 300 residents on May 19 after geologists warned that an imminent rock-and-ice avalanche could devastate the village.
• Search and rescue teams continue to hunt for a 64-year-old man reported missing, deploying thermal drones to scan the extensive debris field.
• The landslide obstructed the Lonza River, creating concerns over dammed water and potential downstream flooding.
• Swiss leaders have announced emergency funding for affected families amid expert warnings that climate-driven glacier retreat may trigger further hazards.