Rockfall threatens Säntis north face above Schwägalp

Up to 15,000 cubic metres of rock could fall from the Säntis north face above Schwägalp in the canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden, SRF reported. Authorities have closed certain areas as a precaution.

The pilot of a Rega rescue flight spotted an unstable section of rock in a steep face below the Girenspitz in the Säntis massif. Further investigations, including by geologists, found that the section was at risk of collapse and that falling rocks could reach parts of Schwägalp, the canton said.

Between 10,000 and 15,000 cubic metres of rock are considered at risk. The potential danger zone includes, in particular, a gravel quarry above Siebenhütten. Operations there were stopped immediately and access was closed.

The official hiking trail from Schwägalp to Siebenhütten is outside the danger zone.