Switzerland’s glaciers experienced one of their most significant ice losses in recorded history over the past year, shedding 3% of their total volume due to a combination of scarce winter snowfall and extreme summer heatwaves, according to a new report by the Glacier Monitoring Switzerland (GLAMOS) and the Swiss Commission for Cryosphere Observation.
The findings, covering the October 2022–September 2023 hydrological year, reveal the fourth-largest annual ice reduction since measurements began. Matthias Huss, director of GLAMOS, described the loss as “really a lot,” emphasizing the compounding effects of low snow accumulation in the northeastern Alps and June’s record-breaking temperatures.
Scientists warn that such rapid melting threatens water security, hydropower production, and alpine ecosystems. The trend aligns with global climate patterns, offering a stark reminder of the urgency to address rising temperatures.
