Early-warning systems for geological and avalanche risk sites (T4.12)

In Arctic Norway, the IMPETUS project focuses on improving slushflow risk mitigation through better early-warning systems. Slushflows – a lesser-known but increasingly frequent snow hazard – pose a growing threat to transport and infrastructure. These rapid movements of very wet snow differ from the more familiar snow avalanches and are especially prevalent in Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. As climate change brings warmer, wetter winters, slushflow events are becoming more common in northern Norway and potentially in all regions with seasonal snow cover. Slushflows are challenging to predict and manage because their formation and dynamics are less well understood than snow avalanches. Because of this there are less mitigation strategies available for slushflow risk reduction when compared with snow avalanches or landslides. This project aims to enhance the mitigation options for slushflow hazards.