Triglav glacier in Slovenia has completely melted

In early October 2026, researchers from the Anton Melik Geographical Institute reported that the Triglav glacier in Slovenia was expected to disappear within days. Experts noted the glacier had ceased to function as a true glacier because it no longer accumulated or moved new ice, a process worsened by below-average snowfall and early spring melts.

By late October 2026, observations confirmed that the central ice mass had vanished, leaving a barren rocky landscape. While the glacier covered approximately 40 hectares in the mid-19th century and 14 hectares in 1946, it had shrunk to less than one hectare in recent years before its final disappearance. Scientists attribute this loss to long-term atmospheric warming in the Alps and record-breaking summer temperatures.

On October 31, 2026, the institute confirmed that the final remnants of the main ice body, which had shrunk to only a few meters, have completely melted. Matija Zorn, director of the Anton Melik Geographical Institute, noted that the disappearance represents a scientific loss, as the ice served as a vital climate indicator and data source. While some small, isolated ice patches and ice found in caves on higher, shaded parts of Mount Triglav remain, these are no longer considered part of the Triglav glacier.