Glaciers melted in Italy – and World War I bombs were exposed

About 250 shells and mortar bombs from World War I were exposed in the Dolomites mountains in Italy due to melting glaciers. The Italian army completed a complex evacuation operation at high altitude. Authorities warn hikers not to touch suspicious ammunition.

About 250 shells, mortar bombs, and other ammunition items from World War I were exposed in the Dolomites mountains in northern Italy, following an accelerated retreat of glaciers that had hidden them for over a century. The Italian army completed a complex operation to remove the dangerous ammunition from mountainous areas and hiking trails. According to the army's statement, most items were discovered in the Trentino-Alto Adige region by hikers and naturalists. An additional shell was accidentally found after a vehicle plunged into a ravine near the town of Caldonazzo in June. Most of the ammunition is remnants of the 'White War' between Italy and Austria-Hungary from 1915 to 1918. The evacuation operation began in August by the 2nd Engineering Battalion of the Julia Alpine Brigade and continued until October 16. In one case, a popular climbing route was temporarily closed until the evacuation was completed. The Italian army noted that ammunition clearance from the world wars is carried out annually, mainly in late summer and early autumn.