University of Geneva to research mountain climate change

Rockfall in Brienz, thought to be triggered by climate change

Climate change is increasing the risk of dangerous mountain hazards across the Alps, from landslides to fast-moving mudflows.

The University of Geneva is launching a new research chair to study these events, focusing on how warming temperatures, melting glaciers, reduced snow cover and thawing permafrost are destabilising slopes. 

These debris flows can travel at speeds of over 50 kilometres per hour, triggered by heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, and pose growing risks to people and infrastructure. 

The research will combine field data, satellite monitoring and modelling to help authorities better predict and reduce future impacts.

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