Morphometric Indicators of High Tatra Mts. Lakes and Their Catchments to Analyse Debris Flow Dynamics (Slovakia)

Abstract This paper provides a quantitative assessment of debris flows, the morphometric properties of high-mountain lakes, and their catchments in the Slovak part of the High Tatra Mts. Our database comprises 29 high-mountain lakes in 11 valleys. We utilised vector models to derive some maps, and for a detailed study, we employed a digital elevation model of the study area and applied map algebra within a geographic information system environment. Using ArcGIS software, we calculated 18 morphometric parameters (such as basin orientation, topographic slope factor, basin length, basin ruggedness, etc.). This study is valuable for conducting various analyses of hydrological and morphometric characteristics of catchments. It is based on a comprehensive approach that integrates Earth remote sensing with aerial image interpretation and detailed field research of the High Tatra Mts.’ lakes. The study has shown a significant influence of morphometric parameters of catchments on the dynamics and frequency of morpho-dynamic processes.