Glacier Fluctuations in the Western Swiss and French Alps in the 16th Century

Abstract

This article reviews evidence for 16th century glacial fluctuations in the western Swiss and the French Alps. Previously available sources and new historical sources, as well as dendrochronological investigations of larches that were destroyed by glacier advances (Great Aletsch Glacier), have shed much light in recent years on glacial movements in the 16th century. Many of the earliest know Records for glacial activity in the Western Alps date from the end of the 16th century and refer to outbursts of glacier dammed lakes (Allalin Glacier, Giétro Glacier, Rutor Glacier). Only few but very important evidence in the first half of the 16th century refer directly to glacial extension as in the case of the Lower Grindelwald Glacier and the Rhone Glacier. The drastic change in climate starting in 1565 which cause the remarkable advance of Alpine glaciers can be easily seen in the tree-ring curves (maximum density, tree ring width) of larches (Larix decidua Mill.) in the Alps.