Community Rallies to Evacuate Residents and Livestock in Switzerland
GENEVA — In a remarkable show of community spirit, Swiss authorities have evacuated around 300 residents from a village at risk of a landslide in the beautiful Lötschental valley. In an unusual twist, livestock were also included in the evacuation plan, with one bewildered cow even being airlifted to safety by helicopter.
Mayor Matthias Bellwald of Blatten expressed his appreciation for the solidarity shown by locals during the quick evacuations that began on Saturday. The community came together during this trying time to ensure everyone’s safety, demonstrating the strength of their bonds.
Jonas Jeitziner, a spokesman for the regional crisis center, shared that a total of 190 sheep, 26 cows, and 20 rabbits were rescued, including “Loni,” an injured cow that required helicopter transport. The timeline for residents to return home remains uncertain, but the community awaits further updates.
Alban Brigger, an engineer specializing in natural disasters, mentioned that challenging weather conditions made it tough to assess the situation accurately. There are ongoing concerns about an unstable mass of rock and the nearby glacier, as falling rock could potentially trigger additional hazards.
Just one day prior, Brigger noted that the outcome had been favorable so far. Instead of the feared massive landslide of 1.5 million cubic meters of rock, only a few smaller mudslides occurred.
This is not the first time the village of Brienz, also in eastern Switzerland, faced similar threats. In 2023, residents were evacuated ahead of a formidable landslide that dangerously neared their homes. The residents of Brienz experienced a similar scare last year, showcasing that the dangers of natural disasters are ever-present.
The resilience and cooperation of these communities remind us of the importance of unity in the face of challenges. As they brace for the future, the hope is that everyone—residents and livestock alike—will return safely to their homes soon.
