Rockslide in Blatten: Entire village has to flee because of danger to the earth!

Rockslide in Blatten: Entire village has to flee because of danger to the earth!

On May 19, 2025, a massive rockslide occurred on the Kleiner Nesthorn in Valais, Switzerland. Part of the eastern ridge broke off and triggered a debris avalanche that carried away glacier material. The demolition stopped about 500 meters above the village of Blatten. In view of the acute danger situation, the entire village, which is located at an altitude of 1,540 meters, was ordered to be evacuated. Animals, including a dozen cows, were also brought out of the danger area. According to a report by vol.at Residents had little time to prepare for the evacuation. Silvano Bellwald reported that his family only had 15 minutes to pack the essentials.

The mayor of Blatten, Matthias Bellwald, was relieved that no one was injured in this incident. However, he pointed out the danger posed by smaller crashes and did not rule out the possibility that such events could occur more frequently in the future. Esther Bellwald, a hotel operator, expressed concern that her hotel was due to open for the summer season in two weeks.

The causes of the evacuation

Experts estimate that up to 5 million cubic meters of rock could fall. An unstable rock mass above Blatten has shifted 2.9 meters, with snowmelt and the lack of permafrost considered likely contributing factors. The Birch Glacier on the Kleiner Nesthorn has been observed for 30 years, and a recent rockslide swept away parts of the glacier. Geologists have used GPS devices to determine that the mountain's movement has increased. This information comes from The federal government.

The risk of a landslide in Blatten could even trigger chain reactions that could release glacier water and lead to dangerous debris flows. The authorities have carried out numerous reconnaissance flights to continuously monitor the situation. The head of information for the regional command staff, Matthias Ebener, issued a strong warning about the potential consequences of a loose boulder, while Alban Brigger from the Natural Hazards Service expressed concern about the current situation.

Climatic influences on landslides

The thawing of permafrost can lead to rockfalls and landslides, as the climatic changes in recent years have shown. Loud Bafu.admin.ch The risk of rockslides is increased when large amounts of rock, typically over a million cubic meters, break away from a rock face. These amounts of rock can reach high speeds and cause dangerous water outbursts or tidal waves in the valley.

The return of the evacuees will depend on the current security situation. The mayor hopes that the measures can be lifted quickly, but uncertainties remain. The events in Blatten highlight the challenges mountain communities face due to climate change.