Landslides in Switzerland after heavy rain. Two people died, one is missing

On Saturday and at night from Saturday to Sunday, violent storms struck southern Switzerland, including the Maggia River Valley. The lightning was accompanied by heavy rain, which caused flooding and landslides. Two people died, authorities in the canton of Ticino reported on Sunday morning. A third fatality was reported in the afternoon. To facilitate rescue operations, residents were asked to limit travel to a minimum and not go to areas affected by the bad weather, police in the canton of Ticino, Switzerland's southernmost administrative unit, appealed. Surrounding roads were closed, and there were also problems with electricity supplies. According to the federal warning system Swissalert, parts of the canton were also without drinking water, the AFP news agency reported.

The death of a fourth person was also reported. In the canton of Valais in Saas-Grund, the body of a man was found in a hotel. He most likely died because he was unable to escape from the rapidly rising water level.

Swiss President Viola Amherd expressed her condolences on social media to the families who lost their loved ones.

“Strong storms caused destruction in several regions, people died in the canton of Ticino. My thoughts are with those affected. The situation remains tense. Please be careful and follow the authorities' instructions,” she wrote.