In recent years, large rocks have frequently fallen in Italy’s Dolomite mountains. Sometimes boulders the size of a car tumble down, posing a threat to residents and tourists. Experts say this is a natural process, but also note that climate change is accelerating such events.
The Dolomite mountains have an unstable structure: hard rock on top, soft clay beneath. As a result, stones form cracks and gradually slide away. In 2004, one of the famous “Five Towers” collapsed, and several other major rockfalls have occurred since.
Geologists say that rain and sharp temperature changes wear down the rocks faster. When rainwater seeps into cracks and freezes, it expands and breaks the stone. In recent decades, heavy rainfall has increased, leading to more collapses.
Experts state that it is impossible to fully stabilize the mountains. Currently, only special monitoring and warning systems are being used to reduce risks. These systems track cracks and help alert local people in time.
The Dolomite mountains are a UNESCO heritage site. They cannot be stopped from collapsing, but people must be prepared for such events. Therefore, residents and tourists are strongly advised to strictly follow safety rules.
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