Four dead: experts warn of the dangers of the mountains after the recent rockfalls.
Four deaths from stone chips within four days, most recently a 14-year-old only on Sunday at the entrance to the Eisriesenwelt in Werfen, a seriously injured person in the Carinthian Tscheppaschlucht: Is this a coincidence? Does this have anything to do with climate change?
Questions to which a quick answer can quickly be wrong. Because in both cases, in the Styrian Bärenschutzklamm and in the Pongau community, the rockfall is not caused by thawing permafrost. But according to geologists, water plays a crucial role; more precisely: the water of the recently particularly heavy rains in the affected areas. And their accumulation (the increased observation of extreme weather events) is in turn associated with climate change.
Rain loosens stones
Robert Supper, Vice Rector of the Geological Survey in Vienna, expressly says that previous heavy rainfalls were decisive for the cases: “The rain loosens the stones in the joints.” The falling of rocks or stones into the depth is therefore predictable. The geologist Supper continues: “One hundred percent security cannot be established. Tourists must also be able to accept that there is a residual risk. ”And he gives an unexpected tip. If you are not ready to take this risk, you can virtually visit alpine attractions today.
For hikers and mountaineers, there is always a certain risk that something will go off in alpine terrain, especially in high-risk zones, after persistent rainfall.
This risk can be minimized with structural measures that protect against avalanches, mudflows or rockfalls. But even with extensive structures such as the approach to the Eisriesenwelt in the Tennengebirge, the largest ice cave in the world, there is still a potential hazard. Supper emphasized that everyone who travels in the mountains must be aware of this – even if it is a supposedly safe tourist hotspot. One could simulate where rocks could loosen in the terrain and erect structures. A whole mountain cannot be blocked.
Longer lock possible
On day one after the deadly falling rocks near Werfen, it is impossible to estimate how long the popular excursion destination will be blocked. The ice cave and the boarding must not be entered since the accident. The Alpine Police has started the investigation into the exact course of the accident, and the safety devices are also being checked.
As Mayor Hubert Stock explained, geologists are to find possible additional danger spots. At the same time, it is determined whether and which additional measures are necessary to ensure the safety of visitors. The ice giant world is asked to create a concept. Only then can the company be opened again.
The path from the mountain station to the cave entrance is currently partially secured with concrete protection galleries. Cable car operations manager Michael Rieder thinks it could possibly amount to expanding the protective gallery or installing protective nets.
(red./APA)
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