A stunning series of events unfolded on Thursday, September 5, as around 2,200 tourists found themselves stranded at the scenic Saas-Fee ski resort, situated high up in the Swiss Alps. This popular destination, known for its breathtaking views and car-free environment, was cut off from the outside world due to a severe landslide triggered by heavy rains.
Reports indicate the prolonged downpour resulted in significant overflow from several rivers located within the Saas Valley, leading to vast amounts of earth, mud, and boulders tumbling down onto the main access road between Stalden and Saas-Balen. The landslide completely blocked this major thoroughfare, isolATING the region and leaving tourists unable to return to their homes or continue their vacations.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Air Zermatt, the resort’s dedicated helicopter rescue service, activated immediately, launching evacuation efforts for those trapped. These heroic crews managed to fly out many of the stranded tourists, giving them a chance to leave the area relatively quickly. Notably, though, this service didn’t come without cost; evacuees were charged approximately CHF 140 (around $165) for their helicopter lift off the mountain.
Saas-Fee, located within the Valais region of Switzerland near the Italian border, is famous for its picturesque alpine scenery. The resort offers year-round skiing, making it not only a winter hotspot but also a training ground for numerous international ski teams during the summer months. Visitors typically navigate the area via electric buses or taxis since the town is car-free, which adds to the charm and serenity of the surroundings.
For the local community, this isn't the first encounter with landslides this year. Just months prior, another series of mudslides during late June and early July wreaked havoc on the nearby Saas Grund, damaging property and tragically leading to the death of a hotel guest. Fortunately, the recent landslide at Saas-Fee resulted in no injuries reported among the trapped tourists.
Officials and local authorities have noted the seriousness of the situation and continue to monitor the area closely. Following the landslide, the local government has advised residents and guests alike about the precarious conditions of the roads. The disrupted roadway between Stalden and Saas-Balen is expected to remain closed until at least the start of the following week, as extensive road clearance efforts are underway.
A preliminary examination of the area revealed massive boulders, some weighing up to 100 cubic meters, threatening the roadway. To safely clear the path, officials report they will need to detonate these boulders. Until the blasting and subsequent cleanup are completed, road access will remain restricted, effectively keeping the valley closed off.
The government has made it clear of their commitment to ensuring the safety of both residents and tourists, stating they are working diligently to restore regular access to the affected regions. Meanwhile, stranded tourists expressed mixed feelings about their unexpected stay. While many were eager to leave, others found the majestic backdrop of the Swiss Alps to be worth the unexpected delay, taking the opportunity to explore newly isolated trails and enjoy impromptu adventures.
Visitors were constantly updated on the situation by local authorities, who have assured the public of their commitment to restoring safety and access. Helicopters continue to ferry people out, making every effort to return tourists safely to populated areas.
Despite the chaos caused by nature's fury, the region's charm and resilience shine through as both locals and tourists band together during this trying time. The story of Saas-Fee serves as another reminder of how quickly weather can shift and alter plans but also how communities can rise to meet unexpected challenges, showing compassion and determination.
Now, as the dust settles from this torrential incident, residents and tourists alike look forward to the reopening of the roads and the brighter days of winter sports yet to come. Saas-Fee, with its thriving tourism culture, is expected to bounce back as it has always done, proving once again why it remains one of Switzerland's beloved alpine destinations.
