Logo

Swiss Village Blatten Buried in Glacier Collapse, One Missing Amid Mudslide

In a devastating event, the Birch Glacier collapsed in the Swiss Alps, burying 90% of Blatten village under ice, mud, and rocks. Despite an evacuation order, one man remains missing. Experts link the disaster to warming temperatures destabilizing permafrost, highlighting the severe effects of climate change on Switzerland’s glaciers.

Swiss Village Blatten Buried in Glacier Collapse, One Missing Amid Mudslide

A catastrophic glacier collapse struck the village of Blatten in the Swiss Alps, burying it under a destructive mix of ice, mud, and rock. The disaster occurred on Wednesday at approximately 3:30 pm local time when part of the Birch Glacier in Switzerland’s southern Wallis region gave way, triggering a massive deluge. This event devastated around 90% of the village situated in the Lotschental valley, home to approximately 300 residents.

Authorities had issued an evacuation order earlier due to the threat of a landslide; however, some residents chose to remain, including a 64-year-old man who has since been reported missing. Drone footage aired by Swiss broadcaster SRF revealed widespread destruction, with homes engulfed in debris, damaged wooden structures scattered among mud, and the Lonza River flowing through the affected valley.

Matthias Bellwald, mayor of Blatten, described the extent of the damage at a press conference, stating, "We've lost our village." He reassured the community, emphasizing resilience and a commitment to rebuilding.

Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter expressed sympathy for the residents, acknowledging the profound loss of homes in this tragedy. Matthias Ebener, spokesperson for local authorities, detailed the event’s scale, noting it registered as a 3.1-magnitude seismic event, involving millions of cubic meters of displaced rock, ice, and soil. Prior rockfalls had further destabilized the glacier, magnifying the collapse.

Experts from the University of Zurich attribute the disaster to warming temperatures weakening permafrost, which in turn destabilizes mountain rock formations. This collapse is unprecedented in Switzerland’s recent alpine history. The country, which hosts Europe’s largest glacier network, witnessed a 4% glacier volume reduction in 2023, following a 6% decline in 2022, underscoring the ongoing impacts of climate change on the region.

Over 17,000 Evacuated as Manitoba Declares State of Emergency Amid Wildfires
Over 17,000 Evacuated as Manitoba Declares State of Emergency Amid Wildfires

Over 17,000 residents in Manitoba are evacuating following a state of emergency declared due to widespread wildfires. The fires, driven by prolonged dry and warm weather, have scorched nearly 200,000 hectares and affected remote towns like Flin Flon. Military resources are being deployed to assist evacuations and firefighting efforts amid the province's worst wildfire season in years.

Swiss Glacier Collapse Destroys 90% of Alpine Village, One Missing
Swiss Glacier Collapse Destroys 90% of Alpine Village, One Missing

A massive landslide caused by the collapse of the Birch Glacier in Switzerland destroyed 90% of the alpine village of Blatten and left a 64-year-old man missing. Authorities evacuated 300 residents earlier due to the glacier’s instability. The incident also buried the Lonza River bed, raising environmental concerns. The glacier’s rapid retreat is largely attributed to climate change.

UK Detects West Nile Virus in Mosquitoes for First Time Amid Climate Change
UK Detects West Nile Virus in Mosquitoes for First Time Amid Climate Change

For the first time, West Nile virus has been found in mosquitoes in the UK, identified by the Animal and Plant Health Agency during routine surveillance. Rising temperatures due to climate change have allowed this traditionally tropical virus to move northwards. Although no human cases have occurred, experts warn that warming conditions could enable future outbreaks. The virus primarily circulates among birds but can infect humans via mosquito bites, sometimes causing severe neurological illness. This detection signals changing disease patterns linked to global warming.

Nigeria Floods: Nearly 200 Dead, 30 States Affected Amid Severe Impact
Nigeria Floods: Nearly 200 Dead, 30 States Affected Amid Severe Impact

Widespread flooding in Nigeria has claimed nearly 200 lives and displaced thousands, with Niger State's Mokwa town severely affected. The disaster has damaged farmland, homes, and infrastructure, disrupting vital trade routes and worsening food supply chains. Forecasts indicate increased flood risks across 30 states amid ongoing insecurity, threatening to deepen Nigeria's food crisis.

Ancient Oualata Town and Manuscripts Threatened by Sahara Desert Encroachment
Ancient Oualata Town and Manuscripts Threatened by Sahara Desert Encroachment

Oualata, a UNESCO-listed medieval town in Mauritania, is endangered by Sahara desertification and heavy rains that damage its mudbrick buildings. Once a thriving center for trade and Islamic learning, many of its historical manuscripts and structures now face neglect as residents relocate for work. Preservation efforts continue amid limited funding and security challenges.

EU on Track to Meet 2030 Climate Targets, Challenges Persist for 2040 Goals
EU on Track to Meet 2030 Climate Targets, Challenges Persist for 2040 Goals

The European Union is on course to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 54% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels, nearing its 55% target. Despite economic growth of nearly 70% since 1990, challenges remain, including uneven progress across member states and issues in forest and carbon management. The EU aims for carbon neutrality by 2050 with a proposed 90% emissions cut by 2040.

US Reinforces NATO’s Northern Flank Amid Rising Russian Threats
US Reinforces NATO’s Northern Flank Amid Rising Russian Threats

Amid escalating Russian aggression, the US has increased its military involvement in NATO’s northern flank, conducting joint exercises with British, Finnish, Swedish, and Lithuanian forces. Strategic locations like Sweden’s Gotland island have become central to NATO’s defense strategy, highlighting Washington’s commitment to European security despite former President Trump's critical stance on NATO. Military leaders reaffirm steady operational focus, emphasizing the importance of preparedness in the Baltic and Nordic regions.

Zelenskyy Meets German Chancellor Merz Seeking Enhanced Military Support
Zelenskyy Meets German Chancellor Merz Seeking Enhanced Military Support

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin to request enhanced military support amid intensifying Russian assaults. Germany has lifted missile range limits on weapons supplied to Ukraine, potentially expanding Kyiv's strategic reach. Recent drone and missile attacks have escalated on both sides, damaging infrastructure but causing no casualties. Zelenskyy's visit underscores urgent efforts to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities during ongoing conflict.

Swiss Village Buried by Glacier Collapse: One Person Missing
Swiss Village Buried by Glacier Collapse: One Person Missing

A glacier break in the Swiss Alps triggered a massive mud and rockslide that covered parts of Blatten village, which had been evacuated earlier due to avalanche risks. One resident remains missing as authorities continue rescue efforts. The disaster caused severe damage to buildings and infrastructure, with emergency services urging residents to stay clear of the hazardous zone.

Human Remains Found After Glacier Collapse Buries Swiss Village
Human Remains Found After Glacier Collapse Buries Swiss Village

Following a massive glacier collapse that buried the Swiss Alpine village of Blatten under ice and debris, search teams have uncovered human remains. Officials have not yet confirmed the identity, including whether they belong to a missing 64-year-old resident. The village's earlier evacuation had protected around 300 people from harm, but recovery efforts persist amid concerns over regional geological stability.

Global Temperatures Likely to Exceed 1.5°C Limit Between 2025-29, Warns WMO
Global Temperatures Likely to Exceed 1.5°C Limit Between 2025-29, Warns WMO

A new report from the World Meteorological Organization warns that global average temperatures between 2025 and 2029 are likely to exceed 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, with an 86% chance of at least one year surpassing this threshold. The Arctic is poised to warm rapidly, while South Asia is expected to see above-normal monsoon rains. The findings underscore urgent global climate challenges and the need for effective adaptation measures.

Global Leaders to Convene in France for Urgent UN Ocean Conference 2025
Global Leaders to Convene in France for Urgent UN Ocean Conference 2025

The third UN Ocean Conference, hosted in Nice, France, gathers world leaders, scientists, and businesses to combat the global ocean emergency. Focus areas include rising temperatures, plastic pollution, and overexploitation of marine resources. Participants aim to mobilize $100 billion in funding and advance the high seas biodiversity treaty to protect marine ecosystems and promote sustainable ocean use.

Global Crises Delay Tobacco Reduction Targets, Millions More Continue Smoking
Global Crises Delay Tobacco Reduction Targets, Millions More Continue Smoking

Efforts to reduce global smoking rates by 30% between 2010 and 2025 have been hindered by the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and conflicts, leading to a five-year extension of the target deadline. The delay could result in 95 million additional tobacco users who otherwise might have quit. Advocates urge governments to strengthen tobacco control measures such as taxation and smoking bans to prevent further health impacts.

How Contemporary Art Shapes Environmental Awareness and Action
How Contemporary Art Shapes Environmental Awareness and Action

Art plays a crucial role in environmental advocacy by engaging public emotions and bridging the abstract nature of climate change. From historical landscapes to innovative projects like Lauren Bon’s water purification initiative, artists influence ecological policy and awareness. Collaborative efforts integrating artists early in climate projects enhance sustainable solutions and foster global ecological solidarity.

Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez's Venice Wedding Sparks Local Protests
Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez's Venice Wedding Sparks Local Protests

The highly anticipated wedding of Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez on Venice's San Giorgio Maggiore island is generating local backlash due to its disruption of the city during peak tourism, environmental concerns, and perceived social inequalities. Activists plan protests throughout the week, criticizing the lavish event for exacerbating ecological strain and marginalizing residents in the historic UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What Happens to Coral Reefs as Global Temperatures Rise Beyond 1.5°C
What Happens to Coral Reefs as Global Temperatures Rise Beyond 1.5°C

Scientific forecasts warn that with global temperatures rising beyond 1.5°C, the majority of coral reefs will perish, drastically changing marine ecosystems. Mass bleaching already occurs at current temperatures, pushing reefs toward collapse. Future underwater habitats will be dominated by hardier organisms, but overall biodiversity will decline, affecting over one billion people reliant on reefs for food, tourism, and coastal protection. Conservation and adaptation efforts must focus on reducing local stressors and exploring heat-tolerant coral restoration to mitigate losses in an increasingly warming world.

Sean 'Diddy' Combs Accused of Assaulting Ex-Girlfriend Cassie Ventura
Sean 'Diddy' Combs Accused of Assaulting Ex-Girlfriend Cassie Ventura

Sean 'Diddy' Combs faces severe allegations from ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, who reportedly required medical treatment after being assaulted. Testimony revealed instances of physical abuse, coercion involving male prostitutes, and threats to release explicit videos. Combs was arrested in 2024 and faces serious charges, maintaining his plea is pending.

Israeli Baby Dies Weeks After Mother Killed in West Bank Attack
Israeli Baby Dies Weeks After Mother Killed in West Bank Attack

The baby of Tzeela Gez, an Israeli woman killed by a Palestinian gunman in the West Bank, has died after two weeks in critical condition. Following the tragic attack near the settlement of Bruchin, the Israeli military neutralized the shooter. Israeli officials expressed sorrow and called for decisive measures amid heightened regional tensions.