Item: SWISS NETWORK OF AUTOMATED SNOW AND WEATHER STATIONS FOR AVALANCHE FORECASTING – SUCCESS FACTORS TO ITS ROBUSTNESS AND LONGEVITY
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Title: SWISS NETWORK OF AUTOMATED SNOW AND WEATHER STATIONS FOR AVALANCHE FORECASTING – SUCCESS FACTORS TO ITS ROBUSTNESS AND LONGEVITY
Proceedings: International Snow Science Workshop 2024, Tromsø, Norway
Authors:
- David Liechti [ WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF ]
- Prof. Dr. Jürg Schweizer [ WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF ]
Date: 2024-09-23
Abstract: The backbone of Swiss avalanche forecasting is a network of about 190 automated snow and weather stations located in the Swiss Alps. The network called IMIS (Intercantonal Measurement and Information System) is an almost 30-year success story. Launched in 1996, it still provides important information to local and regional avalanche services, the national avalanche service, and other data recipients such as engineering offices or researchers. Its design, continuous operation and evolution have been critical to the development and operation of downstream models, such as the SNOWPACK model, that are essential for modern avalanche forecasting. We describe the critical elements that have contributed to the IMIS network's robustness and longevity over the years. Among those is the close collaboration between various stakeholders, which has ensured that the network remains well coordinated and effectively managed. In addition, the uniformity in station design has been crucial, allowing for consistent data collection and enabling seamless integration of advanced sensor and software technologies across the entire network. For site selection, we have established processes that allow for selecting optimal locations for snow stations. Finally, the rigorous maintenance routines as well as network and data monitoring systems keep the stations operational even in harsh alpine conditions. By reviewing these elements, we aim to provide insights into the successful operation of IMIS, offering a model for the design, deployment, and maintenance of snow and weather station networks for avalanche forecasting worldwide.
Object ID: ISSW2024_P8.22.pdf
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s): David Liechti
Keywords: automated snow and weather stations, measurement network, snow cover model, avalanche forecasting
Page Number(s): 1174 - 1179
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