Svalbard Snow and Avalanche Science Workshop

The first basic avalanche research in Svalbard was initiated by the Norklima CYROSLOPE Svalbard research project (2006-2009), with the aim of studying the influence of particularly avalanches on traffic and infrastructure around Longyearbyen in a changing climate. This first basic avalanche research effort in Svalbard took advantage of the easy field-accessibility in winter and the logistical and research infrastructure provided in Longyearbyen at UNIS. A number of scientific publications identified the avalanche hazard in the Longyearbyen area, but as to date, no avalanche warning and forecasting is in place. With a snow cover lasting up to 10 months a year, a high relief landscape, devoid of any substantial vegetation, Svalbard provides a potential wo rld-class natural field-laboratory for snow and avalanche research. In addition the facilities and faculty at UNIS which is ideally located for easy field access, which provides exceptional infrastructure to support world-class science and education. We therefore propose to organize an SSF supported workshop dedicated to snow and avalanche research and its practical implications in Svalbard in early May 2013. The workshop will be held at UNIS in Longyearbyen enabling field visits as well as communication with the local authorities. Improved national and international cooperation could lead to a future exploration of the scientific potential, contributing to field-based snow and avalanche research and its technological challenges. As one practical outcome we anticipate a paper with recommendation for suitable future avalanche warning and forecasting for Longyearbyen and its surroundings. We have composed a list of key participants that confirmed to participate an the workshop: Co-organizers: Jordy Hend rikx (Montana State University, USA), Hanne H. Christiansen (UNIS), Eirik Malnes (Norut, Norway), Jørgen Haagensli (Red Cross Longyearbyen).