Mont Blanc height increases by nearly 2 meters due to snow and ice changes

Recent measurements by French geodesists indicate that Mont Blanc, Western Europe's highest peak, currently stands at 4,807.47 meters above sea level. This represents an increase of approximately 1.9 meters compared to measurements taken three years ago.

Experts clarify that this change is not due to rapid tectonic or orogenic activity, but rather fluctuations in the thickness of the snow and ice layer covering the summit. The height of the peak varies based on weather conditions, including precipitation, wind, and temperature. For instance, while the peak has grown nearly 2 meters over the last three years, the snow and ice layer actually decreased by about 1.3 meters over the past 12 months.

The measurements were conducted on September 17 at dawn by a team of geodesists, scientists, and mountain guides. Using approximately 30 kilograms of specialized equipment, the team utilized satellite devices, radar to distinguish between ice and rock, and a drone that captured over 1,300 photos to create a three-dimensional model of the snow cap.