Swiss glaciers experienced a dramatic decline in 2026, shedding more than 5% of their ice volume, according to data released Thursday by the Glacier Monitoring in Switzerland (GLAMOS) network. This figure marks the second-largest annual loss on record, following unprecedented heat waves across Europe.
The latest findings are part of a broader trend: over the past five years, Switzerland’s glaciers have lost nearly 20% of their total mass. Scientists warn that this trajectory threatens long-term water supplies and could lead to the complete disappearance of alpine ice fields within a decade or two.
“Alpine glaciers have no chance of surviving in the long term under such conditions,” said Matthias Huss, head of GLAMOS. He described 2026 as a “catastrophic year” driven by meager winter snowfall and record-breaking summer temperatures, which caused the glaciers to lose enormous quantities of ice.
Looking ahead, Huss cautioned that there may be virtually no ice left in 10 to 15 years. “This is a glacier that isn’t surviving,” he noted.
The report underscores the severe impact of global warming on Europe, identified as the world’s fastest-warming continent. Huss emphasized the direct link between human activity and current climate trends, stating, “The warming that we are experiencing now can be attributed 100% to anthropogenic climate change.” He added that without emissions from fossil fuels, the current warming would not be occurring.
Does anyone remember the Munt La Schera glacier gone in 2022? It’s already happening. This isn’t a distant forecast anymore.
Wait, it’s only 2026? I thought we had more time than this. The numbers are terrifyingly close to now.
Fifteen years feels like a blink of an eye. We really need to stop debating climate action and start acting.