State of the World from NPR The Effects of Melting Glaciers in Europe
Aug 29, 2025
Rob Schmitz, an NPR News correspondent reporting from the Rhône Glacier in Switzerland, shares insights on the alarming effects of climate change as Europe's glaciers melt at unprecedented rates. He discusses the immediate impact on local communities, including the evacuation of a village due to glacial collapse. The conversation highlights concerns about future water sources and shifts in river dynamics. Schmitz also explores innovative adaptations in shipping as water levels change, underscoring the urgent need for awareness and action against climate change.
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Sudden Glacier Collapse In Blattens
- Barbara Hochreiner and hotel staff evacuated Blattens when the Bursch Glacier began sliding toward the village.
- The glacier later broke loose, burying homes, the church, and town hall under mud, sand, and rocks.
Alpine Glaciers Losing Volume Rapidly
- Daniel Farinotti links increased rockfall and rapid glacier movement to warmer Alpine temperatures.
- Swiss glaciers lost half their volume from 1931 to 2016 and are shrinking faster in recent years.
Glaciers As Seasonal Water Reserves
- Farinotti calls glaciers 'nature's water towers' that release stored water in hot, dry summers.
- Without glaciers, summer river flows will shift and may leave catchments dry during heatwaves.