Violent Thunderstorms Devastate Switzerland

Bern, Switzerland – August 13, 2024 – Devastating thunderstorms swept across Switzerland on Monday evening, August 12, causing widespread damage, flooding, and landslides. The intense weather system brought torrential rain, powerful winds, and over 70,000 lightning strikes, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

One of the hardest-hit areas was the village of Brienz in the Bern canton. The Milibach River, swollen by heavy rainfall, burst its banks, inundating the village and causing significant damage to buildings and infrastructure. Approximately 70 residents were evacuated as a precautionary measure.

Landslides also posed a serious threat. The Axenstrasse, a major road along Lake Lucerne, was closed due to a landslide. The Swiss Federal Roads Office deployed helicopters to assess the damage and ensure the stability of the surrounding area.

Zurich Airport experienced significant disruptions due to the storms, with 20 flights diverted and numerous departures delayed.

Emergency services across the country were overwhelmed by the sheer volume of calls for assistance. The canton of Aargau was particularly affected, with over 150 emergency calls received.

While there have been no reported fatalities, the full extent of the damage is still being assessed. Cleanup and recovery efforts are expected to take several days.