Climate Change Alters Avalanche Patterns in Switzerland: Wet Avalanches Set to Increase as Snowfall Declines
A recent study by Swiss Federal Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research (SLF) expert Stephanie Mayer reveals that less snowfall doesn't necessarily equate to fewer avalanches. Instead, climate change is shifting the nature of avalanche risks in Switzerland, particularly at elevations above 1,800 meters.
Mayer’s research indicates that as temperatures rise, dry avalanches are likely to decrease, but they’ll be partially replaced by wet snow avalanches, especially at higher altitudes. These wet avalanches occur when part of the snowpack is moistened by rain or meltwater, making them challenging to control through traditional safety methods, such as artificial triggering. “Closing off endangered areas may be the only solution,” Mayer explains, highlighting the challenges this change pose...
