Swiss lakes remain dangerously thin despite freezing temperatures
Swiss authorities are warning residents to stay off frozen lakes and ponds as cold weather grips the region. Despite thick ice forming on many bodies of water, officials confirm that conditions remain unsafe for public use. Several incidents have already highlighted the dangers of unstable ice.
Over the Christmas period, multiple people fell through thin ice on Lake St. Moritz. Quick reactions from bystanders helped pull them to safety before serious harm occurred. The incident has reinforced warnings about the risks of venturing onto frozen surfaces too soon.
Zurich police are actively checking ice thickness at various locations across the canton. Current measurements show that none of the lakes or ponds meet the safety standard of 10 to 12 centimetres recommended by the Swiss Lifesaving Society. As a result, all bodies of water remain officially closed. At Katzensee, the ice appears solid, but authorities have not conducted official measurements. The lake remains off-limits because the ice is not yet stable enough for safe access. Similarly, smaller ponds like Schützenweiher in Winterthur and Glattpark in Opfikon are also closed. Over the weekend, some visitors ignored the 'No Entry' signs at Glattpark, prompting further calls for caution. Walking on any frozen surface is currently prohibited. The canton’s ice bulletin continues to advise against all recreational activities on lakes and ponds until conditions improve.
With temperatures staying low, ice may continue to form, but officials stress that thickness alone does not guarantee safety. The Swiss Lifesaving Society’s guidelines must be followed before any lakes or ponds reopen. Until then, authorities urge the public to avoid frozen water entirely to prevent further accidents.
