When I stepped outside, the view resembled Switzerland, but the atmosphere felt different. The distant Alps, capped with snow, stood magnificently, their reflection shimmering in the turquoise waters of Lake Lucerne. The waterfront was my path, but the air lacked the crisp, cool mountain freshness typical of this area.

This visit, occurring late last week, brought with it intense heat and humidity, creating an environment akin to strolling through dense, boiling humidity. Beautiful Lucerne lay ahead, yet the air felt more like being in Luzon, Philippines. Along the lakefront, soccer fans in red and white clustered around large screens airing a FIFA World Cup match. Switzerland faced Bosnia-Herzegovina, broadcasting live from the U.S. Every goal by the Swiss team triggered a loud roar that sliced through the heavy air.

These conditions reminded me of a previous reporting trip to the area. A Swiss glaciologist guided me through the Rhône Glacier, explaining how Switzerland faces significant vulnerability to climate change. The country experiences more frequent temperature extremes, causing some of the world’s most rapidly receding glaciers.

By the end of the evening, Switzerland celebrated a World Cup win, yet the battle against a warming climate persists. The temperature extremes are a continued concern for this mountainous nation.