WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF

Snow and avalanches 03.02.2026
Avalanche winter 1951: impetus for hazard maps
Avalanche winter 1951: impetus for hazard maps

After the avalanche winter of 1950/51, the SLF developed a colour code for avalanche-prone areas, forming the basis for today's hazard maps.

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Map section with handwritten markings, lines, and parcel numbers
 
Snow and avalanches 27.01.2026
Avalanche winter 1951 redefines barrier technology
Avalanche winter 1951 redefines barrier technology

After 1951, the SLF stepped up its research into protective measures. The result? Guidelines, fewer walls – and an international reputation.

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Black-and-white photo of several wooden frames on a snow-covered slope with terraces in the background
 
Institutional 21.01.2026
Research meets the future: AI for sustainability
Research meets the future: AI for sustainability

To mark the 2026 WEF, the ETH Domain showcases topical research highlights with a focus on AI, the environment and sustainable technologies.

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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 for people and the environment in a changing world

NEWS

Institutional
30.01.2026

Millions for muons: SLF participates in new NCCR

The SLF is using cosmic rays to investigate the snow cover as part of the new National Centre of Competence in Research "Muoniverse".

Institutional
27.01.2026
An audience is gathered in a lecture hall for the WSL-EAWAG Biodiversity Research Day. A sign in the foreground welcomes attendees, while a presentation is displayed on a screen in the background, indicating the event's focus on biodiversity research.

New Biodiversity Center of WSL and Eawag

WSL and Eawag join forces: the new WSL-Eawag Biodiversity Center links research on biodiversity on land and in water.

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)

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AvaBlog

Our experts analyze the avalanche situation.
2 February 2026

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