Swiss Village Destroyed: Glacier Collapse Leaves One Missing

Swiss Village Devastated by Glacier Landslide: One Missing A massive landslide near Blatten, Switzerland, has destroyed a significant portion of the village after a large chunk of the Birch Glacier broke off on May 28, 2025. Hundreds of residents were evacuated in the days leading up to the event due to concerns about the glacier's instability. Despite the evacuations, one 64-year-old man remains unaccounted for. "Around 90% of the village of Blatten was engulfed in ice, mud, and rock," a statement from Swiss authorities said. The sheer force of the landslide sent a torrent of debris crashing down the mountainside, submerging homes and causing widespread destruction. The search for the missing man was temporarily suspended due to the continuing risk of falling debris. Rescue teams are working to clear the area and assess the full extent of the damage. The event has raised concerns about the impact of climate change on glacial stability in the region. While the immediate focus is on the search and rescue efforts, the disaster serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with climate change and the importance of proactive measures to mitigate such risks. The rebuilding process will be long and challenging, but the resilience of the community will undoubtedly play a vital role in recovery.