Alpine ski resort plans to repurpose snowmaking system for summer fire fighting

Facing shrinking natural snowfall, the Adelboden-Lenk ski resort relies on an extensive snow-making infrastructure that stores rain and meltwater in reservoirs and distributes it through kilometers of buried pipes. Resort managers propose that, in the event of a forest fire, this network could be used to lay down moist barriers and provide a reliable water source for ground crews and aerial tankers. The idea was discussed with local firefighters, who acknowledge rising dryness even in spring.

While Switzerland has not yet seen major blazes this season, drought conditions have heightened concern throughout the Bernese Oberland. Critics from Greenpeace warn that such adaptations offer only short-term relief against broader climate-driven changes. Nonetheless, the mayor emphasized the need for preparedness as extreme summer weather becomes more common.