Body of climber missing 37 years is found inside melting Swiss glacier, police report
A melting glacier near the Matterhorn has uncovered the remains of a climber missing for 37 years, Swiss police reported.
Mountaineers stumbled across the remains and scattered climbing gear, including a boot, July 12 on the Theodul glacier above Zermatt, Valais Cantonal Police said in a news release.
DNA testing found the remains are those of a German climber who vanished in September 1986, police said.
The then 38-year-old man was reported missing after failing to return from a hike, police said. Searchers failed to find the missing man.
Police said receding glaciers are increasingly revealing the remains of long-missing climbers and mountaineers.
In 2022, a receding glacier revealed the wreckage of a plane crash from 1968, BBC News reported. In 2014, a helicopter found the remains of a British climber missing since 1979.
How to be prepared while hiking
If you’re planning to hike, the National Park Service says there are 10 essentials you should take:
Navigation: Pack a map, compass and a GPS system. Make sure you study your route beforehand and understand how to use the tools.
Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat can help protect your skin and eyes from UV rays.
Insulation: A jacket, hat, gloves, raincoat and thermal underwear can help you be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.
Illumination: A flashlight, lantern and headlamp can create light if you get stuck in the dark — and don’t forget to pack extra batteries.
First-aid supplies: It’s a good idea to have a first-aid kit on hand while hiking. Check the expiration date on items before you pack them.
Fire: Matches and a lighter can help start fire to act as an emergency signal in times of need.
Repair kit and tools: Duct tape, a knife, screwdriver and scissors can be helpful if items break during your hike or you need assistance.
Nutrition: You should pack an extra day’s worth of food in case something goes wrong. Park officials recommend having “salty and easy to digest snacks.”
Hydration: You should drink water often and before you feel thirsty if you’re hiking in hot weather. Keeping your body hydrated is “of utmost importance,” park officials said.
Emergency shelter: Packing a tent, space blanket, tarp and bivy can help you be prepared if severe weather breaks out or your plan takes a turn.
Google Translate was used to translate the news release from the Valais Cantonal Police in Switzerland.
This story was originally published July 30, 2023 at 3:28 PM with the headline "Body of climber missing 37 years is found inside melting Swiss glacier, police report."