Switzerland is grappling with the aftermath of heavy rainfall that has led to severe flooding and landslides, causing significant disruptions to travel and infrastructure across the country. The Swiss Federal Office of Meteorology has issued alerts as flood risks persist, warning of possible further landslides due to saturated soil unable to absorb more rain.
The Misox valley in the canton of Graubuenden was particularly hard-hit, with a landslide burying parts of a village and leaving rubble strewn across the area. Images and videos from local media depict overflowing rivers, collapsed roads, and the aftermath of the landslide, highlighting the extent of the damage.
The situation led to the temporary closure of routes leading to the popular tourist destination of Zermatt, known for its proximity to the iconic Matterhorn mountain. Rail services to Zermatt were disrupted but resumed Saturday evening, albeit with delays and interruptions.
President Viola Amherd expressed shock at the extent of the damage, indicating the severity of the crisis. The Swiss Army has been mobilized to assist in search and rescue efforts for missing individuals and to evacuate affected residents.
This flooding and landslide event in Switzerland follow similar incidents in neighboring Germany, where persistent rainfall led to widespread flooding and disruptions in rail services and shipping along major waterways like the Rhine and Danube.
The situation in Switzerland underscores the ongoing challenges posed by extreme weather events, emphasizing the need for effective disaster response and infrastructure resilience in the face of climate-related risks.
Sources By Agencies
