Heavy rainfall, melting snow, and saturated ground have caused severe flooding in the Swiss canton of Valais. This situation has led to significant disruptions and raised the alert levels across the region.
Key Areas Affected
Zermatt Isolation: The popular tourist destination of Zermatt, located near the Matterhorn, has been particularly hard-hit. The Mattervispa river partially overflowed, cutting off the mountain village from the outside world. As a result, the Matterhorn-Gotthard Railway suspended its operations, leaving Zermatt inaccessible since midday on Friday.
Rising Water Levels
Rhone River Concerns: Authorities are closely monitoring the Rhone river and its tributaries, which are at risk of overflowing. The water levels have been high since the morning and are expected to peak by late evening, increasing the threat of further flooding and landslides.
Evacuations and Precautions
Chippis Evacuations: In Chippis, about 30 residents were evacuated as a precaution. These evacuees spent the night in a local gymnasium.
High Alert Levels
Warning Levels Raised: Local officials have elevated the warning level for the entire canton, indicating the need for heightened monitoring and emergency preparedness. The Swiss federal authorities have also raised the danger level for parts of Valais to the second-highest, level 4.
Public Safety Measures
Movement Restrictions: Residents and visitors are advised to avoid watercourses, refrain from parking on bridges, and limit their movement near affected areas. Filming or photographing the storm events is discouraged for safety reasons.
Transportation Disruptions: Train services between Visp and Zermatt have been suspended. Replacement buses are operating between Visp and Täsch to assist stranded passengers.
Ongoing Efforts
Flood Management: Local authorities have been on high alert since early Friday, preparing extensively to manage the flood risk. The banks of the Rhone and its tributaries are off-limits to the public until Monday evening as the Valais cantonal flood control authority monitors the situation.
With the entire region on high alert, both local and federal authorities are working diligently to mitigate the impact of the floods and ensure the safety of residents and tourists.
