Swiss glaciers lost 5.5% of their ice in 2026, according to a report by the Swiss Glacier Monitoring Network (GLAMOS). The record heatwave and low snowfall contributed to unprecedented melting, with the Aletsch Glacier experiencing its biggest-ever melt. The loss threatens water supplies and raises concerns about the long-term survival of Europe's ice fields.
The report highlights that Swiss glaciers have lost nearly 20% of their mass over five years, with 2026 marking the second-largest loss on record. Matthias Huss, director of GLAMOS, warned that there could be no ice left in the next 10-15 years. He described 2026 as a 'catastrophic year' due to extreme temperatures and inadequate snowfall.
The melting has had a temporary benefit in easing summer water shortages, but as ice-covered areas shrink, this benefit is diminishing. Huss expressed concern about the rapid pace of glacier retreat, noting that the situation is 'a really worrying situation' with 'no snow left' and 'just these rocks' on the mountains.
The report attributes the warming to anthropogenic climate change, with Huss stating that 'without human emissions or fossil fuels we wouldn't have any warming at the moment.' The findings underscore the accelerating impact of climate change on Europe's glaciers and the potential for complete loss in the near future.