Weisshorn glacier instability near Randa

A hanging glacier on the Weisshorn East above Randa, Valais, has exhibited significant instability, with an ice block weighing approximately 250,000 tons moving downslope at speeds of up to 20 centimeters per day.

Authorities and experts from the Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research (SLF) have implemented high-level monitoring using radar, cameras, and sensors. The risk level has been raised to stage 3 of a four-stage warning system. While the residential area of Randa, which has approximately 450 residents, is not currently considered to be under immediate threat, exclusion zones have been established to prohibit hikers and mountain bikers from the danger area, and a local gravel plant has been temporarily closed.

Recent snowfall has increased concerns, as experts, including natural hazard engineer Norbert Carlen, warn that an icefall could trigger a catastrophic chain reaction. Specifically, if the ice block breaks away, it could sweep up accumulated snow on the Bis glacier plateau, triggering massive snow avalanches with a greater reach than typical summer icefalls. If a collapse appears imminent, authorities would trigger stage 4, which includes mandatory evacuations.