Sforzellina Glacier, Alpine glacier in Valtellina, Italy
Sforzellina Glacier is a northwest-facing ice mass in the Ortles-Cevedale Group within Stelvio National Park, positioned below Corno dei Tre Signori mountain. The glacier extends across several hundred meters along the mountainside and sits between 2800 and 3150 meters in elevation.
Scientists have monitored the glacier since 1925, recording a total retreat of 500 meters over the decades. This long measurement record documents how the ice has steadily decreased in response to regional climate patterns.
Research teams and volunteers from the Italian Glaciological Committee regularly conduct measurements to document the glacier's transformation over decades.
Visitors should prepare for high altitude conditions between 2800 and 3150 meters, which requires proper mountain equipment and fitness. Binoculars or a zoom lens help observe surface details and measurement stakes from a safe distance.
The glacier surface transforms from white to black as debris coverage increases, while winter avalanches now contribute more mass than direct snowfall.
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