The southeastern region of Switzerland has been pounded by massive thunderstorms and rainfall, leading to a landslide that has left three people missing. The incident occurred in the Alpine valley of Misox in Graubunden, where a rockslide struck a group of houses in the municipality of Lostallo. One woman was miraculously pulled out alive from the rubble, but rescue efforts are ongoing for the three others.
Rescuers have been working tirelessly to locate the missing individuals, utilizing excavators and specially trained search dogs. According to William Kloter, the head of the Swiss police rescue operations, hopes are high for finding the three missing people alive. The gravity of the situation was acknowledged by Swiss President Viola Amherd, who expressed her shock at the scale of the damage caused by the severe weather. Amherd extended her condolences to those affected and thanked the emergency personnel for their dedication in the face of adversity.
Meanwhile, the popular tourist destination of Zermatt in the southern canton of Valais remains inaccessible due to the heavy rains and melting snow caused by the bad weather. The Mattervispa River, which flows through Zermatt, has overflowed, causing the village to be cut off from the rest of the region. Dramatic videos have surfaced showing the usually tranquil river turning into a muddy flash flood, partially submerging streets in the popular ski resort.
Rains and Landslides Bring Chaos to Switzerland
As a result, the Matterhorn-Gotthard Railway has halted its operations, with no alternative transportation available. Emergency services in the canton of Valais are on high alert due to the rising levels of the Rhone River, which reached its peak on Saturday. Authorities have warned residents to exercise caution, advising them to avoid lower parts of their houses, including cellars, and to keep a safe distance from swelling rivers. Parking on bridges has also been prohibited due to the increased risk of accidents.
In addition, authorities have cautioned people against filming or photographing the floods, citing safety concerns. The situation is precarious, and residents are being advised to prioritize their safety above all else. Given the treacherous conditions, it is crucial that emergency responders and authorities work together to minimize the impact of the disaster and ensure the well-being of those affected.
