New Swiss 3D simulation tool offers better landslide forecasting

A new 3D simulation tool is enabling much more accurate avalanche forecasts. The model, which proved its worth during the landslides in Brienz and Blatten, could lead to more effective management of alpine risks. The new 3D simulation tool was developed by researchers at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETHZ) and the Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research (SLF). It enables more accurate forecasts to be made of the course, height and propagation of alpine mass movements such as snow, ice and rock avalanches. +Get the most important news from Switzerland in your inbox The model is also capable of realistically reproducing process sequences in complex, steep terrain. "We now have a reliable and operational tool that enables us to help the authorities to assess the possible consequences of imminent alpine mass movements by means of simulations," explained Johan Gaume, a professor at ETHZ and the SLF, in a press release on Monday. First test in Brienz After a first ...