Melting Swiss Glacier Reveals Remains of Climber Missing Since 1986
Human remains discovered on a glacier near Switzerland's iconic Matterhorn have been confirmed as belonging to a German climber who went missing 37 years ago. This discovery highlights the increasingly alarming effects of climate change, which is rapidly shrinking Alpine glaciers and unveiling long-buried secrets.
The remains were found earlier this month by climbers traversing the Theodul Glacier above Zermatt, who noticed a hiking boot and crampons emerging from the ice. DNA analysis confirmed the identity of the climber, who vanished during a hike in 1986 at the age of 38. Despite a large search and rescue operation at the time, no trace of him was found.
The Theodul Glacier, like many others across the Alps, has shown significant retreat in recent years. Once connected to the Gorner Glacier, the two have now separated, emphasizing the glaciers' sensitivity to global warming. This summer, as the ice continues to melt, more discoveries are being made, revealing items and individuals lost for decades.
Notable past finds include the wreckage of a plane that crashed in 1968, which emerged from the Aletsch Glacier last year. In 2014, the body of British climber Jonathan Conville was located near the Matterhorn, bringing closure to his family after decades of uncertainty about his fate. The bodies of two Japanese climbers missing since a snowstorm in 1970 were also found near the Matterhorn Glacier.
The effects of climate change extend beyond uncovering lost climbers. The melting glaciers are altering geopolitical boundaries; the recent shift in the drainage divide due to glacial retreat has led to discussions between Switzerland and Italy about redrawing borders. The Rifugio Guide del Cervino, a popular mountain lodge among skiers and hikers, is now technically located in Switzerland.
Beyond diplomatic discussions and historical discoveries, the rapid melting of Alpine glaciers poses significant environmental risks. These glaciers play a crucial role in Europe's water supply, storing winter snow that feeds rivers such as the Rhine and Danube. Recently, water levels in the Rhine have dropped too low to support the freight barges transporting supplies through Europe, raising concerns about the implications of ongoing climate change.