Heavy rain increases landslide risks along Denmark’s coasts

Recent heavy rain and violent weather across Denmark have heightened the risk of sand and landslides along the coasts. Authorities are warning that further landslides could occur, similar to the one experienced in Nørre Vorupør in Thy on Sunday, where two German boys, aged 9 and 12, were trapped under a sand and earthslide. After approximately 40 minutes, they were freed and transported to Skejby Hospital near Aarhus in critical condition. Their current condition remains unknown.

While caution is always advised near cliffs and slopes in Denmark, landslides are uncommon during this time of year, according to Kristian Svennevig, a senior researcher at GEUS, which conducts geological surveys in the country. The precise cause of the recent slide is still unclear, but Svennevig notes that landslides typically occur during periods of high groundwater, which are often associated with winter storms, particularly seen in January through March.

Recent rainfall in the area has reached between 50 and 60 millimeters in the past week, which may have contributed to the instability of the ground. Svennevig highlights that climate change is likely to increase groundwater levels and result in more frequent landslides in the future.

He stresses the importance of adhering to local authorities’ advice and warns the public to stay clear of any slopes that appear to be crumbling, particularly following high tide. Earlier on Sunday, another German boy was injured in a separate landslide in Nykøbing Mors but was reported to be in stable condition after being airlifted to receive treatment.