Glaciers in Switzerland lost 5.5% of their ice volume this year, marking the second-largest percentage decline on record, experts said. Heat waves and low winter snowfall contributed to the loss.
Switzerland is home to the largest number of glaciers in the Alps. Experts warned that, under conditions like these, Alpine glaciers have no chance of surviving in the long term.
Heat and low snowfall drive glacier losses
The recorded decline reflects the effects of heat waves and a winter with little snowfall. The 5.5% loss is the second-largest percentage decrease documented, underscoring the pressure facing glaciers in Switzerland and across the Alps.
Experts warn about the future of Alpine glaciers
Experts said Alpine glaciers cannot survive in the long term under such conditions. Switzerland's large number of glaciers makes the country's losses a significant part of the wider Alpine picture.
