Now it’s been a few days since the Blatten disaster – geologists have had time to examine the site, and the conclusion is that the result is actually worse than the predicted worst-case scenario.
The debris field extends beyond the prediction – by as much as several hundred meters.
Walter Wildi, professor of Geology at the University of Geneva, told the press that the miscalculation may be due to the fact it wasn’t a landslide at such – but a glacier collapse, which wasn’t considered.
He says glacial mass is far harder to predict and scientists have far less experience.
Meanwhile, hope is fading for a 64-year-old shepherd in Blatten.
Known as Toni, he’s been missing since the rockslide on Wednesday. It’s thought he was in his barn with his animals. The barn was 300 meters outside the evacuation zone.
He looked after around 100 white Alpine sheep. They were regularly put in competition. Locals say he was kind and quiet – but did enjoy the company of his friends.
It’s now highly likely Toni will be the only victim of the disaster.
The Lötschental near Blatten on 30 May 2025 after the major landslide.
Image credit: Swisstopo - Federal Office of Topography
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