Dramatic Glacier Collapse in the Swiss Alps

On May 28, 2025, the Swiss mountain village of Blatten (Valais) was struck by one of the most devastating natural disasters in recent Swiss history: A massive glacier collapse buried approximately 90% of the village beneath millions of tons of ice, rock, and debris.

In the weeks leading up to the event, sensors detected unusual movements on the unstable mountain slope. Continuous, automated measurements – including slope acceleration, temperature changes, and crack formation – allowed scientists and local authorities to assess the danger and evacuate the village in time. These systems provide real-time data around the clock, enabling quick and well-informed decisions in critical situations. Today, they are an indispensable tool in natural hazard mitigation.

Disasters like this underscore the vital importance of reliable environmental monitoring in sensitive alpine regions. The earlier signs of instability are detected, the greater the window for action – and the better the chances of protecting lives.

At Decentlab, our thoughts are with everyone affected in Blatten. We hope for a safe and steady recovery of the village.

Report about the monitoring in use at the site Blatten