Automated detection of glide cracks and analysis of glide avalanches combining remote sensing, GIS and statistical modeling techniques

(S. Feick, A. Bräuning)

Motivation

Full-depth avalanches are counted among the class of wet-snow avalanches which represent a major problem in mountain ranges with a predominantly maritime snow climate. Compared to dry snow avalanches, wet-snow avalanches in general are not well studied (Baggi & Schweizer, 2009). Hence, the occurrence of glide cracks and their evolution to full-depth avalanches (i.e. glide avalanches) are still poorly understood and so permanent monitoring of glide cracks is essential to allow a glide avalanche risk assessment (Leitinger et al., 2008).

Aims

The aims of the current research project are to find an algorithm for automated glide crack detection and mapping combining satellite based remote sensing, GIS and statistical modeling techniques. The use of very high spatial resolution satellite images enables to study large areas and to get adequate sample sizes. Furthermore, temporal high resolution photographs of different test sites taken by stationary cameras and data collected by automatic sensor stations placed nearby the test sites should help to determine and analyze main triggering factors leading to glide avalanches.

Study Area

Eastern Swiss Alps

Methods

• Statistical modeling
• Image preprocessing and image analyses tools
• GIS analyses and visualization tools

References

• Baggi, S. and Schweizer, J. (2009): Characteristics of wet snow avalanche activity: 20 years of observations from a high alpine valley (Dischma, Switzerland). Natural Hazards: 50(1): 97-108.
• Leitinger G., Höller P., Tasser E., Walde J., Tappeiner U. (2008): Development and validation of a spatial snow-glide model. Ecological Modelling, Amsterdam, 211(3-4): 363-374 [9558]