Item: Mapping and Classification of Potential Avalanche Sites in the Chic-Chocs Mountains, Quebec, Canada, Using Geographic Information Systems
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Title: Mapping and Classification of Potential Avalanche Sites in the Chic-Chocs Mountains, Quebec, Canada, Using Geographic Information Systems
Proceedings: Proceedings of the 2006 International Snow Science Workshop, Telluride, Colorado
Authors:
- Alain Royer [ Centre d’Applications et de Recherches en Télédétection, Université de Sherbrooke ]
- Stephanie Lemieux [ Centre d’Applications et de Recherches en Télédétection, Université de Sherbrooke ]
Date: 2006
Abstract: Avalanche sites mapping and classification are tools that have been frequently used for managing avalanche risks. The use of geographic information systems (GIS) for such applications has great potential although it is still in development. The potential avalanche sites of the Chic-Chocs Mountains, Québec, Canada, was mapped with GIS technology, satellite images, aerial photos and 1:20000 topographic maps. A forest map, including three different levels of forest density, was generated from the satellite image. A total of 59 potential avalanche zones were characterized in this area, including 249 avalanches paths, Moreover, in order to build an institutional memory bank of one of the most frequented area by winter sports adepts in Québec, a system was created to allow future cataloging of avalanche occurrences inside the potential avalanche location map. Another terrain analysis was also performed to address the challenge of the access restrictions of Mount-Albert in Gaspésie National Park. A terrain classification by exposure to avalanches based on Parks Canada’s technical model was performed in order to help safer management of the park’s winter activities. The database linked to a GIS is the basis for the study of potential correlation between topographic parameters and weather patterns.
Object ID: issw-2006-411-418.pdf
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s): Unknown
Keywords: avalanche, avalanche mapping, terrain classification, visualisation, geographic information systems (gis)
Page Number(s): 411-418
Subjects: geographic information systems avalanche mapping avalanche risk management
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