WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF

Snow and avalanches 20.01.2026
The avalanche winter of 1951: a disaster unfolds
The avalanche winter of 1951: a disaster unfolds

Analysis: part one of a series on the impact of the avalanche winter of 1951, from protection forests to avalanche barriers and hazard maps.

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Black-and-white aerial view of an avalanche cone on a mountainside next to a village with buildings and roads
 
Research 07.01.2026
Avalanche with crumple zone
Avalanche with crumple zone

When loose snow suddenly packs a punch: SLF researcher discovers unexpected effects in avalanche pressure on pylons.

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Two poles stand in a snow-covered landscape. The poles are dark and each has several crossarms supporting cables. The cables run diagonally across the image. The background is mostly white, showing a smooth snow surface.
 
Research 18.12.2025
"Like a spoon in a teacup"
"Like a spoon in a teacup"

SLF researcher Samuel Weber is working out how quickly heat spreads in permafrost.

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Black-and-white panoramic view of a mountain landscape with cloud-covered peaks in the background. In the foreground, a geological cross-section shows a borehole running vertically through various rock layers depicted in different shades of green.
 
Research 15.12.2025
Switch flipped for conditions conducive to fire
Switch flipped for conditions conducive to fire

Dry weather and low humidity are the main drivers of forest fires, with temperature playing a minor role.

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Hubschrauber mit rotem Löschbehälter fliegt vor orangefarbenem Rauch über grünem Feld mit Feuerwehrzelt.
 

Research for people and the environment in a changing world

NEWS

Logbook
16.01.2026
A vast, snowy landscape stretches toward the horizon under a clear blue sky. Snow-covered mountains are visible in the background. The bright, reflective surface of the snow enhances the sense of openness in this arctic environment.

Festivities and Unforeseen Challenges in the Field

Phd student Anja Mödl is currently conducting research in Antarctica. She reports on her work and life at the Station. Part 2.

Research
07.01.2026

ETH and SLF/CERC join forces in Surselva

ETH Zurich, the SLF and its research centre CERC are further expanding their partnership in the Surselva research and teaching forest.

Logbook
31.12.2025
Two people in orange expedition suits stand in front of the entrance to the United States Antarctic Programme Passenger Terminal in Christchurch.

Research on the Antarctic Riviera

Phd student Anja Mödl is currently conducting research in Antarctica. She reports on her work and life at the Station. Part 1.

Snow and avalanches
15.12.2025
Snow-covered mountain with visible avalanche tracks under a clear blue sky, blurred propeller in the foreground.

Winter 24/25 was the third warmest since 1864

Warm temperatures and low precipitation lead to low snowfall – the 2024/25 winter report is here. (only in German and French)

Research
26.11.2025
A panoramic view of majestic snow-covered mountains under a clear blue sky. The landscape features glaciers and rugged terrain, showcasing the beauty of a winter alpine environment. Snow blankets the ground, creating a serene and untouched atmosphere.

Avalanches sustain glaciers worldwide

An international research team shows that avalanches contribute significantly to the health of many glaciers.

Research
25.11.2025
Mountain village Ftan in the Lower Engadine with green meadows in the foreground and snow-covered peaks of the Swiss Alps in the background.

Mountain climate change: billions at risk

Scientists warn: development faster and more intensely than predicted, with devastating consequences for billions of people.

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AvaBlog

Our experts analyze the avalanche situation.
16 January 2026

current AvaBlog (in German)
current AvaBlog (in French)