Mountains at Risk of Collapsing due to Climate Change
Mountains around the world are facing a new threat as a result of human-caused global warming. Recent reports suggest that the overheating of our planet is causing the destabilization of mountain ranges, with potentially disastrous consequences.
One such incident occurred on June 11, when the summit of Mt. Fluchthorn, part of Switzerland’s tallest mountain group, unexpectedly collapsed. This event resulted in 3.5 million cubic feet of rock tumbling into the valley below, causing the mountain to lose 60 feet of its height. Fortunately, no casualties were reported. The collapse was attributed to the loss of permafrost, a permanent layer of ice and dirt found on many tall mountains in the northern regions.
Geoscientist Jasper Knight from the University of Witwatersrand explained the significance of permafrost, stating that it holds the ground surface together and prevents movement. However, when the ice melts, the stability of the ground is compromised, leading to rapid movement. Mt. Fluchthorn had a significant amount of permafrost, and the melting caused by global warming triggered the collapse, according to Knight.
Jan-Christoph Otto, a geologist at the University of Salzburg, added that the extreme temperatures experienced during the previous summer or fall likely contributed to the failure of the mountain peak. This event has raised concerns about the broader implications of permafrost loss.
The loss of permafrost is a direct result of global warming, and as the Earth continues to heat up, the situation is expected to worsen. The Swiss Meteorological Service reported that temperatures in the Alps are rising at a rate of approximately 0.5 degrees per decade, almost twice the global average. This warming not only affects permafrost but also leads to the melting of ice and snow on the surface, increasing the risk of floods and massive mudslides.
It is estimated that 670 million people reside in high-mountain areas worldwide, making events like the collapse of Mt. Fluchthorn potentially catastrophic. Besides the risk to human life, mass movements can also cause damage to farmland, block roadways, and contaminate water sources.
While indigenous communities have traditional knowledge systems in place to manage extreme weather conditions in mountainous regions, such as agricultural terraces to prevent erosion and landslides, these measures are insufficient. To mitigate further mountain degradation, it is crucial to slow down the rate of global warming.
Individuals can contribute to this effort by reducing the use of single-use plastics, transitioning from gas-powered vehicles to electric ones, and utilizing clean energy sources whenever possible. By taking these steps, we can help protect our mountains and preserve their ecological stability. Join our free newsletter for more information and tips on how to make a positive impact on the planet.
