Switzerland's heatwave raises mountain safety risks

Recent heatwaves in Switzerland have accelerated glacier melt and reduced snow cover in the Alps. The Swiss Alpine Club warned that some mountain ascents are now unsafe because of exposed crevasses, altered access routes and increased rock‑fall danger. Glaciers such as the Rhône glacier in Valais have lost up to 1.4 m of ice in two weeks, with a total loss of four metres since June, and experts say the trend will continue.

A meteorologist also advised hikers that the upcoming weekend will bring variable weather, with possible thunderstorms above 3 900–4 200 m. Hikers are urged to start early, carry rain gear, heed local forecasts and avoid exposed ridges when storms develop. The zero‑degree line will sit at the same elevation, and strong south‑west to west winds are expected.

Both authorities and media stress that while the heat offers pleasant trekking conditions, the combination of higher temperatures and sudden thunderstorms makes mountain safety a priority this summer.