Heavy rains combined with melting snow make the situation worrying for river banks. Drastic measures were taken by the authorities.
The situation is getting worse by the hour along the Valais rivers. In Zermatt, the Vispa overflows into the streets and deposits large rubble on the bridges. Local authorities are on “red alert” and firefighters are on the front lines. The access road from Täsch, as well as the railway, are also closed.
Evacuations in progress
In Chippis, the Rhône reaches very high levels, even if the river is still in its bed for the moment. Its peak is expected Friday evening. “But the level is already low in Sion,” according to the observations of a reader. The torrents also have an impressive flow, like the Navizence, in Chippis. Between Orsières and Sembrancher, the Dranse flows so strongly that it gradually eats away at the edges of a forest path, according to images sent by a reader.
The authorities are taking strong measures. Friday morning, the City of Sion had already prohibited pedestrians from accessing the banks of watercourses until Monday. At midday, she asked the parents of students in Bramois not to leave their children alone on the way to school. At the cantonal level, occasional evacuations were ordered because overflows and debris flows occurred, for example in Val d’Anniviers and Evolène. “Other events of this type are still expected,” he said.
Practical advice
The State also draws up a list of behaviors to avoid. Therefore, you should not approach watercourses or park on bridges. It is recommended to limit travel, refrain from filming or photographing events and strictly comply with the orders of the authorities.