Snow and high temperatures raise avalanche risk

The avalanche danger across much of the Swiss Alps has grown considerably due to heavy snowfall combined with rising temperatures.

The Davos-based Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research (SLF) has placed the risk at the second-highest level, “high avalanche danger”, for the entire northern ridge of the Alps.

The SLF warned that “naturally triggered avalanches can be expected… placing at risk exposed transport routes”.

Several mountain roads have already been closed due to the threat. And the rail line connecting cantons Valais and Uri has been closed indefinitely. The classic tourist train, the Glacier Express which travels from Zermatt to Davos and St Moritz, runs on this line.

The SLF said the avalanche danger is expected to recede over the next couple of days as temperatures drop and sunny weather returns.