Switzerland Faces Major Disruptions from Deadly Flooding and Landslides
In Canton Graubünden’s Misox Valley (Valle Mesolcina), Swiss police confirmed one fatality and two missing persons following a devastating landslide triggered by heavy rain and flooding over the weekend. The disaster also resulted in significant damage to Switzerland’s infrastructure, including a major motorway.
Heavy Rain and Landslides Impact Misox Valley
Over Friday and Saturday, intense rainstorms caused extensive flooding and landslides across the Swiss Alps, particularly affecting the Misox Valley in southern Graubünden. The region received 125 millimeters of rain within 24 hours, far exceeding the average June rainfall of 154 millimeters. In Lostallo, several houses were engulfed by a four-meter-high wave of debris. Authorities confirmed one casualty and reported two individuals as still missing. Graubünden police spokesperson William Kloter acknowledged the slim chances of finding the missing persons alive.
Local Communities Caught Off Guard by Sudden Rain
The abrupt heavy downpour caused streams to overflow and debris to inundate nearby areas, catching many residents by surprise. Emergency services reported widespread impact along 20 kilometers of the valley, estimating damages in the millions of francs. The tourist hub of Zermatt in Valais was also inaccessible due to flooded roads and rail lines throughout the weekend.
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis expressed condolences, remarking on the somber day for affected communities in Graubünden, Ticino, and across Switzerland. President Viola Amherd extended sympathies to those affected and praised emergency responders for their dedicated efforts.
Landslide Disrupts A13 and San Bernardino Pass
A substantial landslide obliterated a 200-meter section of the A13 motorway, a crucial route leading to the San Bernardino Pass, just north of Lostallo. The complete destruction of all four lanes has indefinitely closed the passageway. Route 13, an alternative to the San Bernardino Pass, is also inaccessible. This route serves as a vital link between Swiss cities and Italy and acts as an overflow route for the Gotthard Road Tunnel. Travelers are advised to expect prolonged delays on alternative routes, such as the Gotthard and Simplon passes. Uri Security Director Céline Huber described the situation as highly stressful.
Recovery Efforts Face Extended Timeline
While officials anticipate reopening Route 13 within days, restoring the A13 motorway could take several months, according to a Graubünden police spokesperson. The Federal Roads Office is cautiously optimistic, aiming for a reopening in three to four weeks, barring unforeseen challenges. However, full restoration to pre-disaster conditions will require additional time. Discussions are ongoing regarding the diversion of traffic to other routes during repairs, with concerns raised about potential congestion affecting local residents.
Flight Disruptions and Widespread Flooding Across Switzerland
Geneva Airport experienced significant disruptions following heavy rainfall that flooded the air traffic control system, causing widespread flight cancellations and delays. The adverse weather conditions also led to what has been termed the “flood of the century” in Morges (Vaud) and Liestal (Basel-Land).
Morges City Center Inundated
On June 25, torrential rain and thunderstorms exacerbated existing flooding in Switzerland, including fatal landslides in mountainous regions over the weekend. Morges, in Canton Vaud, witnessed severe flooding in its city center and streets as the nearby river breached its banks at 6 pm. Roads, parking lots, and underground passages were submerged, prompting a local resident to describe the event as unprecedented in their two decades of residency. Emergency responders in Vaud handled 200 incidents across the canton, including in Penthalaz and St-Croix, which also suffered flood-related damage.
Ongoing Flood Warnings Across the Nation
Alertswiss reported widespread disruption to landline services in nine municipalities in Vaud, while mobile networks remained operational. In Basel-Land, emergency services responded to numerous calls in Liestal due to flooded cellars, and a high-risk flood alert remained in effect for Lake Constance and the Rhine River. Additionally, Stein am Rhein reported partial power outages.
Geneva Airport Operational Challenges
Geneva Airport experienced a major impact, with air traffic control company Skyguide temporarily closing airspace due to flooding in their control center’s basement. This closure led to 52 canceled or diverted flights between 10 pm on June 25 and 12:30 am on June 26. Although operations resumed at reduced capacity, significant delays and additional cancellations were expected.
