WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF

Research 21.07.2026
"We're heading into the peak season now."
"We're heading into the peak season now."

SLF forest fire expert Julia Miller explains why so many forests in Europe are burning and why the situation is not going to improve.

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Woman with long blonde hair wearing a black t-shirt standing in front of dense forest
 
Research 15.07.2026
How often will 100-year floods occur in future?
How often will 100-year floods occur in future?

Heavy precipitation is increasing with climate change, but previous flood projections underestimated its impact in the Alps.

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A person stands on a rocky riverbank, wearing a red jacket and navy pants. The background features tall trees and some greenery, with clear water flowing in front. Sunlight creates a bright atmosphere, highlighting the natural setting.
 
Research 08.07.2026
New data acquisition system for avalanche research
New data acquisition system for avalanche research

The SLF has upgraded its outdoor avalanche laboratory with a new, future-ready data acquisition system.

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Two climbers in helmets are ascending a tall, vertical structure on a mountainous landscape. One climber is positioned higher up on the structure, while the other climbs below. The background features green hills and a cloudy sky.
 
Research 16.06.2026
New map showing light and shade in Switzerland
New map showing light and shade in Switzerland

SLF researchers have calculated ground light levels in Switzerland to within ten metres. The model even simulates individual tree shadows.

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Tree with sun behind it along a narrow path on a green meadow under a blue sky
 

Research for people and the environment in a changing world

NEWS

Institutional
07.07.2026
A group of six young adults stands in a line on a stage, dressed in formal attire. They are holding certificates or awards and appear to be smiling. A colorful, abstract background is displayed behind them, suggesting a celebratory or event atmosphere.

“We get our knowledge from everywhere!”

Graduating with a grade of 5.7: How two SLF IT apprentices became the best in their subject in the canton.

Research
23.06.2026

Graubünden blooms with Flora Raetica

"Flora of Graubünden" will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2032—for the new edition, volunteers and researchers are documenting the local flora.

Services and products
11.06.2026

What have we learned about climatic extremes?

Heat, drought, heavy rain: a new website presents the key findings and products of the WSL research programme “Extremes”.

Services and products
04.06.2026
Two hikers are standing on rocks covered in a light dusting of snow, looking out over a mountain landscape with snow-capped peaks. Yellow larch trees stand beside them. The sky is clear and blue.

Nothing stays the same: understanding change

To be prepared for the future, we need to understand the past. The new DIAGONAL explains how WSL and SLF are helping to achieve this.

Research
04.06.2026
The deep riverbed of the Illgraben gives a sense of the enormous masses of scree that thunder down into the valley here.

Measuring metre-high surge waves

For the first time, WSL researchers tracked debris flows over two kilometres, revealing how these dangerous mudflows unfold.

Institutional
01.06.2026
Four individuals stand together in a modern interior setting. They are dressed in casual and business attire. The first person on the left wears a light sweater, the second has a red shirt, the third is in a button-up shirt, and the fourth wears a dark top.

New SLF management team

Following the retirement of the former head of the SLF, the institute is now being co-led by the four on-site heads of unit.

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AvaBlog

Our experts analyze the avalanche situation.
15 April 2026

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