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syntheses for the attention of the Directorate, annual report, statements, data protection, Open Science, Open Research Data Research Programme Extremes, NCCS-Impacts, Energy Research, Knowledge and Technology [...] Strategic planning for science, coordination of higher-level scientific projects, lead program EnviDat, Open Science Assistant to the Director ¶ Administration Director's office, scheduling, meeting preparations [...] management, occupational safety, chemical safety, biosafety, risk management, insurance, archives, data protection, publicity law Occupational Safety Advisor ¶ Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

specific guidelines and evaluating long-term effects. Some of the SLF's data series go back more than 100 years. We evaluate millions of data points that are gathered every year and make them available to [...] How we conduct our research ¶ The SLF researchers make observations, conduct experiments, run models and share information about snow, avalanches, natural hazards, mountain ecosystems and permafrost. They [...] share the results with colleagues all over the world in specialist and scientific journals. Using the data gathered, our scientists create and optimise computer models in order, for example, to calculate the

ears of the avalanche warning service ¶ The SLF observers ¶ Current field data are required to ensure that users can rely on the bulletins, which is why the SLF maintains its own network of observers. The [...] The official observers are trained by the SLF, report regularly on their findings and get paid for their reports. Different data may be collected depending on the situation, including for example estimates [...] measurements at a measuring site as well as providing observations. Another part of the SLF observers provide data from throughout the Swiss Alps. They submit their reports whenever they have information

Additional data is collected at a number of measuring sites, typically by way of observations and assessments, or bi-weekly snow profiles. Some of the other SLF observers collect and deliver similar data, but [...] permanent flat sites that are protected from the wind. Contact ¶ data@slf.ch Further information ¶ Network of automatic measuring stations The SLF and the canton IMIS network spans more than 170 stations, most [...] Description of manual measuring sites ¶ Capturing data in the field is essential both for avalanche warnings and research purposes. Data is collected either manually or by the automated IMIS stations

Jobs and Careers ¶ The employees of the SLF are our most important resources. We therefore regard ourselves as a conscientious employer offering attractive employment conditions and employee benefits. [...] Check here for information about current job openings: Current vacancies We look forward to meeting you. Contact ¶

run by the SLF, we conduct warming experiments in open-top chambers (OTCs). Meanwhile, at the IMIS weather stations we analyse how vegetation growth correlates with weather and climate data. Topics ¶ Trees [...] only gradually. This is why it is all the more important to have long-term research sites that allow data to be compared over generations. The afforestation research at Stillberg and several facilities above

collaboration between the then EAFV (now WSL) and the SLF. Figure 1: The extreme winter of 1951 prompted research into avalanche protection forests at the SLF. The photograph shows the aftermath of an avalanche [...] tree line, for example. They are also utilising the forest avalanche data collected in the 1980s (Fig. 3), together with more recent data resources, to improve both the modelling of avalanche dynamics and [...] Protection forest ¶ Combating avalanches through afforestation ¶ The SLF began researching protection forests in the 1950s. In the wake of the extreme winter of 1951 (Fig. 1), when numerous avalanches

them to users in the form of pamphlets, reports and courses. Open and honest communication Our dialogue with the public is based on active, open and honest communication. The public can and should know what [...] Links ¶ Avalanche Bulletin Media Events Natural hazards warning The SLF on social media Twitter Facebook Instagram YouTube White Risk SLF on social media (managed by the avalanche warning service) Twitter [...] Providing information ¶ As a publicly funded research institute, the SLF has an obligation to provide information about its research findings. We share our knowledge with scientists, practitioners, authorities

measurements with remote sensing data from drones, aircraft and satellite, in order to determine the spatial distribution of snow cover. Topics ¶ SLF Observers Observers within an SLF network make observations [...] fluctuations in snowfall and the effects of climate change on the snowpack. Data for the public We collect measurement data on a long-term basis and supply it to the public on request . For example, e [...] purposes. Measuring network – manual measuring sites The SLF avalanche warning service operates an extensive network of manual measuring sites. The data are also used for climatological and hydrological purposes

SLF avalanche bulletin survey ¶ How do different stakeholders use our products? How well is the content understood by various users? How can we enhance clarity? Together with the SFU Avalanche Research [...] education and training, from snow sport participants who only recently began engaging in activities in open terrain to fully fledged professionals. The study is scheduled to run for several years and include [...] little more about you. The questionnaires are hosted by the website of Simon Fraser University. The data are anonymized and used only for the stated purpose. We will get in touch with you as soon as the

place for SLF employees during breaks. Two lunch menus are available from Monday to Friday (one of which is vegetarian or vegan). Drinks and food vending machines are available outside opening hours. This

known to SLF during the current year. Avalanche accidents during the last 20 years Here you will find an overview about the fatal avalanche accidents in the last 20 year. Long-term statistics The SLF has been [...] publications give you more detailed insights to avalanche accidents. Accident data Data on avalanche accidents can be obtained here. Analysing avalanche events We record and analyse avalanche disasters in [...] detailed records of avalanche events, including full details of all fatal accidents since 1936/37. This data set is not only an important basis for avalanche hazard maps. It also allows us to analyse long-term

is thus to obtain precise long term snow data sets and to make them readily usable in practice and for snow climatology studies . Snow monitoring at SLF ¶ SLF has established an outstanding reputation [...] monitoring, and data curation. The research at SLF has contributed significantly to our understanding of snow in the climate system through the development of snow-climatological data products (anomaly [...] (see snow-cover modelling ), including data management and visualization tools. The institute has been engaged in those activities for decades. Researchers at SLF have access to a high-quality measuring

Information about temperature measurement ¶ Temperature data from all the automated stations of the SLF and from high-altitude (>1900 m) automated stations of MeteoSwiss are shown. The air and snow surface [...] stations, but snow surface temperature is recorded only by the automated IMIS snow stations of the SLF. The map shows the most recent available value for each station. If the most recent measurement was [...] station is greyed out and depicted without a value. Some of the depicted values originate from raw data that have not been checked or validated. Measuring ¶ The temperature sensor is cloaked in a white

Brunner Contents ¶ Projects Staff The Hydrology & Climate Impacts in Mountain Regions research group at SLF and ETH Zurich studies water and climate extremes in mountain regions under global change. Its research [...] of extreme events by exploiting new datasets and the latest methodological advances in statistics, data science, and climate modeling. The group is affiliated with the CERC research centre and operated [...] Impacts at ETH Zurich in the framework of a joint professorship by Manuela Brunner. We are an engaged, open-minded, and innovative research group trying to make a difference by doing research relevant for society

bulletin(at)slf . ch Guided tours: fuehrungen(at)slf . ch or for more details check Guided tours and exhibition General questions, student inquiries: contact(at)slf . ch Webeditor: contact(at)slf . ch Submit [...] Avalanche Research SLF Flüelastrasse 11 CH-7260 Davos Dorf Switzerland Phone: +41 81 417 01 11 Staff and phone book Our switchboard is open: Weekdays 8:00 to 12:00 and 13:15 to 17:15 Questions to SLF by E-mail:

measurement ¶ The map shows only the wind data from IMIS stations of the SLF and from selected high-altitude (>1900 m) stations of MeteoSwiss. The high-altitude wind data recorded by these stations are repr [...] the sensor data and meteorological parameters indicate that such conditions prevail, the data recorded by the wind sensors are ignored and no longer shown on the map. In some cases, the data captured by [...] station is greyed out and depicted without a value. Some of the depicted values originate from raw data that have not been checked or validated. Measuring ¶ The following values are measured at the automated

Long-term statistics ¶ The SLF has been collecting comprehensive data on all the avalanche accidents that have occurred in Switzerland since the winter of 1936/37. These data are compiled and analysed in [...] in the annual accident reports published by the SLF (German only). The most important statistics are presented here in a short overview. Avalanche victims since 1936 ¶ The annual average number of fatalities [...] serious injury. Figure 3: Survival curve showing the proportion of victims surviving complete burial in open terrain (backcountry, off-piste) from 2005/06 until 2012/13. During this period the probability of

MeteoSwiss, SLF, Seismological Service) publish their hazard assessments and warnings on a single map and in natural hazard bulletins on this platform. SLF-Pro : information platform for the SLF avalanche [...] information platform for the SLF avalanche warning service, SLF observers and authorities responsible for natural hazards and safety. It contains the daily reports of SLF observers, the IFKIS EVAL tool [...] provide warnings, measurement data, overview maps and forecasts, many of them in conjunction with the same partners: "Avalanche bulletin and snow situation" portal on www.slf.ch and the White Risk mobile

stations from SLF and MeteoSwiss, which were collected between approximately 7 am and 8 am. Data transmitted late are continuously integrated into the calculation of the map. In general, data from the 30-year [...] are not enough data points available or where there is less than 10 cm of snow on average on the respective calendar day are not coloured. Above 2500 m, where there are also only a few data points available [...] measurement series of the automatic stations do not go back that far, all automatically collected data series that have existed at least since winter 2001/2002 are taken into account. The map is calculated

stations. imis@slf.ch 081 417 01 11 Further information ¶ Network of manual measuring sites Manual SLF measurements serve avalanche warning and climatological purposes. Measured values A bevy of data retrievable [...] Description of automated stations ¶ Capturing data in the field is essential for both research and avalanche warning activities. Data is collected either by the automated IMIS stations or manually . Alongside [...] essential information. They are also used by the avalanche warning service of the SLF, for snow-hydrological and research purposes. Data is also exchanged with MeteoSwiss and other partners. The IMIS network comprises

reliable as possible in all the varied situations that can occur. Up-to-date field data are vital for this, which is why the SLF maintains its own network of observers. The official observers are trained by [...] Avalanche warning ¶ Avalanches rank among the most significant natural hazards in the Swiss mountains. The SLF has been responsible for providing an avalanche warning service on behalf of the Swiss federal government [...] government since 1945 and for informing the public about the current snow and avalanche situation. The SLF's most important product is the avalanche bulletin . The bulletin is a vital planning and decision-making

which is why the SLF maintains its own network of observers. The official observers are trained by the SLF, report regularly on their findings and get paid for their reports. Different data may be collected [...] purposes, the SLF operates an extensive network of measuring stations. This is set out in more detail on the pages for the current measured values. Observations and assessments Current field data are required [...] thoroughly in the field (see "Capabilities and limitations of the avalanche bulletin"). SLF observers ¶ Some of the SLF observers generally file their reports from one and the same region, which is usually

Research SLF Flüelastrasse 11 CH-7260 Davos Dorf Switzerland Phone: +41 81 417 01 11 Avalanche Service: bulletin(at)slf.ch General questions, student inquiries: contact(at)slf.ch Media: medien(at)slf.ch Webeditor: [...] duties of the SLF are research, scientific and technical services, teaching and public relations. As a member of a research institute in the ETH Domain, the Confederation requires the SLF to provide cu [...] the SLF's important national functions is to operate the avalanche warning service for Switzerland. It is particularly active in applied research, but basic research is also among its duties. SLF employees

State-of-the-art sensors developed by the WSL and SLF measure a wide range of variables, such as flow velocity, impact pressure and shear stress. The data provides a better understanding of the processes [...] Experimentation ¶ Scientists from the SLF do more than simply observe nature in order to understand how it works. Through experiments, they are able to create precisely defined conditions, thereby enabling [...] observe them via computer tomography. Masses on the move An exceptional feature of the WSL and the SLF is our instrumented field sites for mass movements, which are the only ones of their kind in the world

process Personal Data in accordance with the Swiss Federal Data Protection Act (DSG) and the Ordinance to the Swiss Federal Data Protection Act (VDSG). In addition, we process Personal Data, if applicable [...] European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Terms Personal Data: Any information relating to an identified or identifiable natural person. Data Subject: A person about whom Personal Data is processed [...] country in question ensures adequate protection. Rights of the Data Subjects Data Subjects whose Personal Data we process have rights under Swiss data protection law. These include the right to information as

gruelling. 10.07.2023 Wayside research Around Davos, hikers often come across SLF research sites. Here we present three routes and what SLF researchers are investigating nearby. Publications ¶ [...] kind in the world, it has technical equipment that allows us to gain just this kind of insight. The data collected helps us, among other things, to develop and improve avalanche simulation programs, which [...] perspective. Last but not least, we also examine avalanche accidents involving snow sports enthusiasts in open terrain, to learn lessons for future prevention. Focus Areas ¶ Avalanche formation Whether an avalanche

world's leading experts in processing data from the Pléiades satellite constellation, which can record optical data with 50-cm resolution. In future, we want to use these data to comprehensively and accurately [...] warmer indoors than outdoors. Insulation is for wimps! Photo: Yves Bühler, SLF Download Room temperature. Photo: Yves Bühler, SLF (jpg, 2 MB) Fullscreen Image 2 of 6 Dunedin is nestled between hills and [...] bays on the South Pacific. Most houses have just one floor. Photo: Yves Bühler, SLF Download Dunedin. Photo: Yves Bühler, SLF (jpg, 2 MB) Fullscreen Image 3 of 6 School of Surveying: the training centre for

standards and best practices for snow data quality checks depending on the application the snow data are used for; Developing standards and procedures to fill gaps in snow data series ; Sharing expertise in [...] not provide individual guidance on data and instruments. However, SMCC may co-organise or participate in workshops aimed at snow measurement techniques and snow data interpretation for scientists, mod [...] of the WMO Infrastructure Commission ( INFCOM ), sustaining both the availability of quality snow data and expert knowledge in snow measurement issues benefits from the sustainable framework as a Measurement

Monitoring ¶ The SLF collects information on snow, natural hazards, permafrost and mountain ecosystems at many locations in Switzerland over the long term. In some cases, the data series are over 70 years [...] developments can be identified and complex relationships uncovered. Decades' worth of measurement data are required in order to understand, for example, the consequences that climate change is having on [...] observation and surveying only; we do not intervene in natural processes. We analyse the extensive data gathered and calculate past developments from it or use models to calculate possible trends for the

(IMIS) , run by the SLF in collaboration with the Swiss federal government and cantonal and municipal authorities. They are located at altitudes between 1,500 and 3,000 m. The data they supply are of [...] value to avalanche warning teams. Climatologists and biologists have been using this measurement data since the 1990s to determine the rapidity and timing of the snowmelt, a key variable for Alpine ecosystems [...] depth but also plant growth during the summer months. Since then, we have been using the measurement data and records on the range of species to investigate how plant growth near the stations correlates with

of comparative data it can offer. Within the project, it serves as a benchmark measuring site for alpine conditions. As well as its many years of experience in data collection, the SLF also offers the [...] Weissfluhjoch test site ¶ Just below the former SLF main building on the Weissfluhjoch is the SLF's oldest test site with its many measuring instruments which have been providing serial measurements c [...] parameters are also used to test and improve the SNOWPACK model developed by the SLF. In view of its status as the SLF's 'home station', the institute's employees also use it as a testing station for updating

maps are based on the snow modelling of the SLF's Operational Snow Hydrological Service (OSHD). The OSHD model system uses high-resolution meteorological input data from weather forecast models and various [...] time new forecast and analysis data from ICON becomes available. The model chain essentially comprises the following model steps: Downscaling of the meteorological input data from ICON from 1 km to 250 m [...] account. Division of total precipitation from ICON into solid and liquid form using air temperature data. Altitude-dependent calculation of fresh snow density taking into account air temperature and wind

The SLF on social media ¶ The SLF publishes articles about its research priorities, projects and products on the following social media platforms: Bluesky Instagram Facebook YouTube LinkedIn (WSL) In addition [...] prevention portal White Risk and much more. Instagram Facebook ​​​​​​​ Notes on the SLF's social media activities ¶ The SLF supports constructive dialogue and welcomes contributions and comments from the community [...] addition, the avalanche warning team is present on the channels below under «White Risk SLF». There it publishes the latest news on avalanche bulletins and avalanche danger as well as interesting facts

included photographs and films were reported online via www.slf.ch or www.gipfelbuch.ch, by email or SMS. The data are registered in the SLF rockfall database, which contains several hundred events from [...] ¶ Figure 1: Rockfall activity in the Alps by volume, altitude zone and month (SLF rockfall database). Analysis of this data shows that whereas in high and cold regions, small and medium events tend to occur [...] delayed reaction to temperature changes. SLF collaborates closely with the Swiss Permafrost Monitoring Network PERMOS , which systematically collects permafrost field data such as ground temperature, active

compared with measurement data from the current day for the first time at 8.30 am and improved. Up to this point, the fresh snow maps for the current day are based purely on model data. At 10.30 a.m., 4.30 [...] updated again with the measurement data supplied in the meantime. The new snow maps are based on the snow modelling of the operational snow-hydrological service of the SLF (OSHD). The OSHD model system uses [...] high-resolution meteorological input data from weather forecast models and various reanalysis products from MeteoSwiss. In forecast mode, the new snow model uses data from the ICON forecast. In addition

approximately 15 years old at this depth. Image: Martin Schneebeli, SLF Ice cores are a unique medium for chronicling climatic data. Air bubbles trapped in the ice provide information on the composition [...] micron. We feed this data into our " SNOWPACK " snowpack and radiation balance model. Although we developed this model for the Alps, we are continually adapting it to process the data collected under polar [...] to a Greenland Climate Network measuring station on the Greenland ice sheet. Image: Martin Proksch, SLF Because of the perpetual sub-zero temperatures, it takes approximately one thousand years in the Antarctic

Snow and Avalanche Research SLF The data may be used stating our copyright and the date of your download. Example: Source: WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, retrieved on 26 February 2019 [...] plausibility by SLF staff and corrected if necessary, but may contain inaccuracies or omissions. The table is updated regularly but not daily. Spotted a discrepancy or error? Email accidents(at)slf . ch with [...] the forecast danger level. The table can be sorted by clicking on the table header. Notes on the data All avalanche accidents in which one or more people were killed in the avalanche are included. The

other mountain peaks as well, we are researching how the flora on mountain summits changes over time. SLF employees examining the vegetation on mountain peaks. Photo: Christian Rixen The high alpine flora [...] and in the Scottish and Scandinavian mountains, and comparing the findings with a one-hundred-year data set spanning the same sites. Within the framework of GLORIA (GLobal Observation Research Initiative [...] five to seven years, we are recording the plant species and their populations, as well as temperature data, in order to monitor climate-related changes in the vegetation. Contact ¶

(IMIS) that provides us with wind and snow data from higher altitudes. Together with the daily measurements and observations of more than 200 observers, these data are an important basis for the daily avalanche [...] "Winter Sports and Climate" team at the SLF deals with snow management and snow-climatological analyses and scenarios. Snow Physics The "Snow Physics" team at the SLF is involved in research into the material [...] facilities for snow and ice ¶ It all began in 1935 in an igloo. Today, the snow researchers at the SLF work with radar measurements and computer tomography. But depending on the situation, they still use

avalanche starting zone (photo: archive SLF) 1996 Relocation from the Weissfluhjoch down to the new building of the SLF Institute in Davos Dorf (photo: archive SLF) 1996 the SLF initiates the development of the [...] Research SLF Flüelastrasse 11 CH-7260 Davos Dorf Switzerland Phone: +41 81 417 01 11 Avalanche Service: bulletin(at)slf.ch General questions, student inquiries: contact(at)slf.ch Media: medien(at)slf.ch Webeditor: [...] archive SLF) In 1936 a wooden hut on the Weissfluhjoch served as a snow laboratory (photo: archive SLF) The extreme winter of 1950/51 claimed numerous victims - like as in Vals (photo: archive SLF). 1953:

in 1935 (archive SLF) First research facility on the Weissfluhjoch in 1936 ¶ Inside the first snow laboratory (archive SLF) Cone penetrometer for measuring ram resistance (archive SLF) The members of the [...] Swiss as experts and undertook further studies at the SLF, and SLF employees travelled abroad to assist with local avalanche protection programmes. The SLF was soon recognised as the centre of snow and avalanche [...] contemporary business leaders and politicians. Just one year later, in April 1943, the SLF celebrated the official opening of its new home on the Weissfluhjoch. Development of new measuring instruments Besides

Anyone seeking a job in the avalanche services, or as an SLF observer, must possess a sound knowledge of snow and avalanches. For this reason, the SLF offers an annual programme of basic and advanced training [...] covers the fundamental aspects of information and data exchange, as well as safety issues. The 4-day course is targeted at avalanche service employees, SLF observers, and private individuals with a special [...] mountain railway and cableway operators Employees in crisis management teams and local authorities SLF observers Private individuals with a special interest in the subject Course A – Snow and avalanches

Snow and Avalanche Research SLF The data may be used stating our copyright and the date of your download. Example: Source: WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, retrieved on 26 February 2019 [...] plausibility by SLF staff and corrected if necessary, but may contain inaccuracies or omissions. The table is updated regularly but not daily. Spotted a discrepancy or error? Email accidents(at)slf . ch with [...] the forecast danger level. The table can be sorted by clicking on the table header. Notes on the data All avalanche accidents in which one or more people were caught by the avalanche are included. Avalanches

pillar of the Swiss permafrost monitoring network PERMOS , which the SLF coordinates together with the University of Fribourg. The data and results obtained are also a central basis for research and practice: [...] long-term measurements to observe the permafrost and its mostly invisible changes in the underground. The data obtained also help us to better understand the complex processes between the atmosphere, the surface [...] changes. To distinguish short-term fluctuations from long-term trends, we need long and comparable data series. Temperature changes from the surface are increasingly attenuated and delayed with depth. It

these sensors, data with high resolution covering large areas can be collected quickly after catastrophic events, even in regions that are inaccessible or difficult to reach by land. The SLF is investigating [...] stallite data (SPOT6) over large parts of the Swiss Alps ( Bühler et al. 2019 ). Weather independent Radar sensors (TerraSAR-x & Sentinel-1) were also tested ( Leinss et al. 2020 ). Such data analysis [...] the spatial variations which occur in high alpine terrain. SLF researchers are testing remote sensing methods to obtain seamless snow depth data over a large area and thus evaluate the potential of these

Research SLF: Stephan Harvey, Alec van Herwijnen, Lukas Stoffel, Yves Bühler, Jürg Schweizer, Jürg Trachsel Information Marion Hofmänner, marion.hofmaenner(at)slf . ch or Stephan Harvey, harvey(at)slf . ch [...] 2025 in Davos. Registration is now open Content ¶ Objectives Target audience General information / registration Course structure Course elements Lecturers from the SLF Further information Objectives ¶ The [...] avalanches. You will improve your observational skills in the field and your analytical capabilities in data interpretation and will be able to integrate new techniques and methods into your daily work. Furthermore

Operating and maintaining the network of SLF observers Hosting the SLF training courses on snow and avalanches for members of the avalanche safety authorities and SLF observers Basic and advanced training [...] Collaborating in the national consortium of natural hazard warning agencies (MeteoSwiss, FOEN, WSL/SLF, SED) and with other partners and clients Managing projects to refine products and services Contributing [...] Davos Every avalanche observed in Davos since the winter of 1949/50 has been recorded and mapped. This data set is very valuable. Avalanche bulletin surveys Is the avalanche bulletin comprehensible? Does it

wealth of data and information. The work calls for both expert knowledge and experience. Summary of key points: Avalanche bulletin: Issued by the WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, the bulletin [...] descriptions, as well as an appraisal of the snowpack and weather. Data analysis: The forecasters on duty analyse the available measured data, observations and assessments in order to evaluate the current [...] day. The SLF's Warning and Information Systems team develops for avalanche warning services tailor-made software solutions that are not available through commercial channels. These include data recording

(FMI, Finland) Dr. Neige Calonne (C NRM, France) Dr. Fabian Wolfsperger (WSL-SLF, Switzerland) Dr. Benjamin Walter (WSL-SLF, Switzerland) Course cost ¶ The participation fee is CHF 450 , which includes [...] t of critical thinking skills through the analysis, comparison, and discussion of collected field data, complemented by additional inputs such as model simulations and satellite observations. In 2026, [...] snow and cryosphere-related disciplines, who plan to conduct field measurements of snow or use such data in their research. In exceptional cases, undergraduate students may also be considered. Course structure