Alpine climate-induced natural hazards: integrative adaption of early warning models

Climate change is causing profound changes in high-alpine catchments, impacting cryological, hydrological, geochemical, geomorphological, and biological processes. Rising temperatures are reducing cryosphere water reserves and altering runoff patterns. Simultaneously, erosion in the form of debris flows and rockfalls, as well as increased sediment transport in rivers, is intensifying, while biodiversity losses are being observed, particularly in high-mountain protective forests. Additional periods of drought increase the risk of forest fires and pest infestations, which in turn influence erosion dynamics.

Given these complex interactions between the geospheres, it is crucial to observe, understand, and predict this rapid change in an integrated manner in order to develop effective adaptation strategies. The AlpSenseAdapt project focuses on analyzing process cascades in high-mountain regions and integrating the findings into physically based predictive models. Through interdisciplinary collaboration across various fields, the project contributes to improved management and enhanced safety in the region.