Austria's Alpine refuges and trails crumble as climate warms

Rauris, Austria (AFP) Nov 4, 2024

The historic Zittel hut on top of a snow-capped mountain high in the Austrian Alps has weathered many a storm. But ever more extreme climate change is taking a terrible toll on the century-old wooden refuge. "When your hand fits into a crack in the foundation, there is need for action," said Georg Unterberger, who is in charge of mountain refuges and trails at the Austrian Alpine club.