Handling in the Dolomites: State Road closed - tragedy and emergency!

Handling in the Dolomites: State Road closed - tragedy and emergency!

Borca di Cadore, Italien - On July 1, 2025, the Dolomites had a devastating landslide, which made state road 51 between San Vito di Cadore and Cortina d’Ampezzo impassable. This accident trap appeared after more than two hours of violent rain and resulted in massive rubble movements. The landslide, which was dissolved by the Marcora summit in the Belluno area, was moving in an area that was already classified as unstable. After a helicopter flight, the dimensions of the damage were determined, which revealed the need to install alarm systems for monitoring such movements. In addition, the use of high -resolution video cameras to further improve the surveillance systems is considered.

The violent thunderstorms, which also took place in South Tyrol, led to further difficulties, including flooded basement, degenerate from leaving and blocked roads. Around 100 missions of the emergency services were registered within two hours. During this storm period, a river near Bardonecchia also went over the shores. Tragically, a 70-year-old man was recovered dead after he was carried away by water and mud. His body was found in the Merdovine River, about 400 meters from his vehicle.

emergency in Belluno

As a result of the landslide in Borca di Cadore, which was also caused by heavy rains, the regional government explained the emergency. This avalanche made of mud and rubble damaged 20 houses, but fortunately there were no injuries. Several people had to be evacuated as a precaution. Roberto Padrin, the President of the province of Belluno, assured that the region was well prepared for the event, which could prevent worse things. This is mainly due to the work that was carried out after a similar catastrophe in 2009, in which two people died. At that time, protective pools and alarm systems were installed.

earth's risk in Italy

Italy is considered the European epicenter for landslides with over 636,000 documented cases. Historical records go back to ancient times. Geological instability, slopes and intensive rains are some of the causes of these natural events. A frightening data picture provides that 129 landslides were already registered in 2024 and that ten further incidents were recorded in the first five months of 2025. The regions of Central and southern Italy were particularly affected, where about 2.2 % of the population, that is over 1.3 million people, in areas with high landslide.

landslide have catastrophic effects that go beyond destroyed houses and blocked traffic routes. People in rural regions often suffer serious consequences for their existence. Missing early warning systems and a incomplete risk awareness also make provisions more difficult. In view of climate change, which leads to more intensive rainfall, Italy faces growing challenges in this area. The use of technologies for early detection is available, but is often hindered by budget issues and organizational defects.

In the current situation, it becomes clear that Italy needs a determined and systematic approach to contain the dangers of landslides and to ensure the security of its population. The events of the past few days are another wake -up call that shows how important technical solutions and political will are to minimize the risks in the affected regions.

For more information see also dolomitenstadt , wdr and in the ticker .