Item: A GIS-BASED METHODOLOGY FOR REAL-TIME PRIORITIZATION OF AVALANCHE CONTROL OPERATIONS IN THE ORDINO ARCALÍS SKI AREA, ANDORRA
-
-
Title: A GIS-BASED METHODOLOGY FOR REAL-TIME PRIORITIZATION OF AVALANCHE CONTROL OPERATIONS IN THE ORDINO ARCALÍS SKI AREA, ANDORRA
Proceedings: Proceedings, International Snow Science Workshop, Whistler, BC, Canada, 2026
Authors:
- Sergi Riba Porras [ Nivorisk Innovation & Solutions, Ordino, Andorra ]
- Joan Viladomat [ PGI-SAETDE-SECONOA, Ordino Arcalís, Andorra ]
- Carles García-Sellés [ Nivorisk Innovation & Solutions, Ordino, Andorra ]
Date: 2026-09-28
Abstract: Prioritizing avalanche control operations in ski areas requires the integration of terrain susceptibility, snowpack evolution, operational exposure, and expert judgement within a decision framework that is fast enough for real-time use. This study presents a geographic information system (GIS)-based methodology to support prioritization of preventive avalanche-control shots in the Ordino Arcalís ski area, Andorra. The objective is to identify which potential release areas should be treated first according to their relative instability and their capacity to affect ski runs, lifts, buildings, access routes, or other spaces containing exposed people and infrastructure. The workflow integrates four components: avalanche-cadastrе and historical information, geomorphological analysis, snow and weather monitoring, and numerical avalanche-dynamics modelling. The spatial database contains 57 potential release areas identified and refined from the avalanche cadastre, topography, photo interpretation, field surveys, and operational knowledge. Recent loading is monitored using automatic snow-weather stations and evaluated over 24, 48, and 72 h windows; this information is complemented by snow profiles, stability tests, and direct observations. An initial threshold of 40 cm of new snow is based on approximately three decades of operational experience by ski-patrol managers, avalanche blasters, and avalanche forecasters at Ordino Arcalís, and is treated as an empirical operational criterion requiring retrospective verification and future recalibration. Current conditions are linked to a library of precomputed RAMMS::AVALANCHE simulations using several release depths and two representative snow configurations to estimate runout and intersections with exposed elements. Final prioritization is based on three binary criteria — recent loading, evidence of instability, and potential consequence — and is always subject to expert validation. The method is intended to improve the efficiency, traceability, and safety of PIDA decisions without replacing the judgement of the avalanche-control manager.
Object ID: ISSW2026_P2.59.pdf
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15788/1790099058
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s): Sergi Riba
Keywords: avalanche control, GIS, numerical modelling, snowpack stability, decision rules, Ordino Arcalís
Page Number(s): 2223 - 2230
-