Police in Marin, canton Neuchâtel, used drones to warn residents to stay indoors yesterday afternoon, after a hydrochloric-acid leak at an EM Microelectronics plant.
Between 50 and 200 litres of acid escaped at the chip factory, prompting a two-hour confinement of the surrounding neighbourhood.
The drones flew over rooftops broadcasting a recorded message — a method the cantonal police described as novel, and faster than going door-to-door.
The confinement was lifted a few hours later.
Politician on trial accused of rape and drug assault
Aargau prosecutors are asking for a life sentence for a former Swiss People’s Party cantonal MP accused of drugging and raping several women and a girl over a period of years.
Swiss People's Party says EU treaty helps crime
Switzerland's largest party is warning that the country's new treaty package with the European Union would let criminals cross the border freely, a claim legal experts call vastly exaggerated.
Waterways dry
Switzerland's dams are less than half full, the lowest level in two decades, after weeks of heat and no rain have drained rivers and lakes across the country.
Jim's British Market changes hands
Jim's British Market has been serving the international community in the region for more than 30 years - and now Jim Anderson has sold the business.
Storms possible at end of week
The heatwave is taking a break this week, with MeteoSwiss forecasting cooler and more stable air across the country and no thunderstorm risk until Friday.
Penthouse flats lose appeal
The most sought-after apartments, top-floor attic flats with big windows and lake views, are starting to lose their appeal as summers grow hotter.
