Melting Permafrost Leading To Alpine Rock Instability

GALTUR, AUSTRIA - JUNE 22: A sign warns that local authorities have closed the hiking trail as partially collapsed Fluchthorn mountain (grey peak) stands in the distance on June 22, 2023 near Galtur, Austria. On June 12 approximately one million cubic meters of rock fell from the mountain into the valley below, causing no injuries but shortening the mountain by 19 meters, from 3,399 meters to 3,380 meters, and bringing down the cross on its peak. Scientists blame melting permafrost, which is undoing the natural bonding effect of ice within high alpine rock. Average temperatures have risen twice as fast in the European Alps compared to lowlands over recent decades. (Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images)