Glacier Collapse Sparks Flood Fears in Swiss Alpine Village

A glacier collapse in southern Switzerland led to devastation in the village of Blatten, where debris blocked a river, creating a potential flood risk. Authorities are on alert as some water has started to seep through the debris. Damage costs are estimated in the hundreds of millions of Swiss francs.

A massive glacier collapse in southern Switzerland has created a looming flood threat after debris blocked a critical waterway, trapping a village under ice and mud this week. Rescue operations have been complicated due to the harsh conditions, leaving the community on high alert.

Authorities have urged residents of nearby villages to prepare for possible evacuations, although some water has begun to trickle through the debris, suggesting a potential easing of the situation. Swiss officials are monitoring the situation closely amid ongoing safety measures.

The disaster, which engulfed the village of Blatten, highlights the potential impacts of climate change in the region, with damage estimated to run into hundreds of millions of Swiss francs. The Swiss Insurance Association notes it's too early for a precise damage assessment.

(With inputs from agencies.)