Severe flooding in the Swiss canton of Valais has caused disruptions in the popular tourist destination of Zermatt, isolating the mountain village and prompting evacuations as authorities raise alert levels. The flooding, caused by persistent rainfall, melting snow, and saturated ground, has led to the partial overflow of the Mattervispa river, cutting off Zermatt from the outside world. The Matterhorn-Gotthard Railway has halted operations, leaving the village inaccessible since midday. Authorities are particularly concerned about the Rhone river and its tributaries, which are threatening to overflow, prompting a high alert level to be called.
In response to the flooding, local officials have evacuated approximately 30 residents in the municipality of Chippis as a precautionary measure. These evacuees have spent the night in the commune’s gymnasium, according to the local mayor. Swiss federal authorities have also raised the danger level for parts of Valais to the second-highest, level 4, indicating the seriousness of the situation. Restrictions have been implemented throughout the weekend, advising residents and visitors to avoid watercourses, refrain from parking on bridges, and limit movement near affected areas.
Train services between Visp and Zermatt have been suspended, with replacement buses operating between Visp and Täsch to assist stranded passengers. In Zermatt, the Vispa River overflowed its banks on Friday morning, leading to the closure of schools. Authorities have been on high alert since the early hours, with reports of extensive preparations being made to manage the flood risk. The banks of the Rhone and its tributaries will be off-limits to the public over the weekend as the situation is closely monitored.
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. The Swiss canton of Valais continues to face the threat of further flooding and landslides as the Rhone river’s water levels remain high and are expected to peak by late evening. The situation is being closely monitored, with residents and visitors advised to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines to minimize risks during this period of heightened alert.
