On 13.7.2022 we made the following observations on the Witenwasseren glacier (Urner Alps, Switzerland):
Wittenwasseren glacier and western glacial lake on 13.7.2022.
Like many other glaciers, the Witenwasseren glacier presented itself largely deglaciated (i.e. free of snow) on 13 July 2022. Since our last visit on 26.8.2019, the glacier has continued to lose length and mass.
Witenwasseeren glacier and eastern glacial lake on 13.7.2022.
The eastern glacial lake has not changed since 26.8.2019. Only its delta has become slightly larger.
Delta of the eastern glacial lake on 13.7.2022.
Greened part of the delta of the eastern glacial lake on 13.7.2022.
Part of the delta was covered with a delicate green: pioneer vegetation has already taken root.
Witenwasseren glacier and middle glacial lake on 13.7.2022.
During our last visit on 26.8.2019, there was practically nothing to be seen of the middle glacial lake. A lot of ice has melted in this area since then.
Middle Glacial Lake on 13.7.2022.
At 1) ice was visible under the debris. I.e. this narrow ridge still contains ice.
An overview of the western lake in front of the Witenwasseren glacier.
The western glacial lake has continued to increase in size since 26.8.2019. As in previous years, the glacier runs shallowly into the lake. Only on the western side has an approximately 3m high ice wall formed. A few ice floes floating on the lake show that small pieces of ice have broken off from this ice wall.
It cannot be ruled out that with the high temperatures of this summer, the heated water has melted the ice on the underside of the glacier.
The western lake in front of the Witenwasseren glacier on 13.7.2022 from a different perspective.
The approx. 3m high ice wall on 13.7.2022.
Meltwater runoff of the Witenwasseren glacier at the alluvial plain below the glacier.
Before our visit to the Witenwasseren glacier, the zero degree line was above 4000m above sea level for several days. The large amounts of runoff are therefore not surprising. Most of the water probably comes from melted glacier ice.
Witenwasserenreuss on 13.7.2022.
The Witenwasserenreuss also carried impressive amounts of water.
Forecast zero degree limit: 4500m a.s.l.
All day sunny, no clouds and light winds.