Changes of hydro-meteorological trigger conditions for debris flows in a future alpine climate

Debris-flow activity is strongly controlled by hydro-meteorological trigger conditions, which are expected to change in a future climate. In this study we connect a regional hydro-meteorological susceptibility model for debris flows with climate projections until 2100 to assess changes of the frequency of critical trigger conditions for...

Simulation of debris flow on an instrumented test slope using an updated Lagrangian continuum particle method

We present an updated Lagrangian continuum particle method based on smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) for simulating debris flow on an instrumented test slope. The site is a deforested area near the village of Ruedlingen, a community in the canton of Schaffhausen in Switzerland. Artificial rainfall experiments were conducted on the slope...

Clay-laden subaqueous gravity flows: Flow structures, deposits, and run-out distance

Submarine gravity flows constitute the last link in the source-to-sink sediment transport chain. They are the main mechanism for the transportation of sediment from the shallower to the deeper parts of the ocean. Due to their great volume, mobility, and power, they pose a formidable threat to the offshore infrastructures, and can generate...

Trigger characteristics of torrential flows from high to low alpine regions in Austria

Torrential processes like fluvial flows (flash floods with or without intensive sediment transport) and debris flows can represent a threat to people and infrastructure in alpine domains. Up to now the hydro-meteorological trigger conditions and their connection with geomorphic watershed characteristics that favor the initiation of either...

The Value of Using Multiple Hydrometeorological Variables to Predict Temporal Debris Flow Susceptibility in an Alpine Environment

Debris flows are typically triggered by rainfall-related weather conditions—including short-duration storms and long-lasting rainfall, in cold climates sometimes in connection with intensive snowmelt. Given the considerable observational uncertainties of rainfall, we tested if other hydrometeorological variables carry enough information...

Operational flood forecasting, warning and response for multi-scale flood risks in developing cities

Flood early warning systems are recognized as one of the most effective flood risk management instruments when correctly embedded in comprehensive flood risk management strategies and policies. Many efforts around the world are being put in place to advance the components that determine the effectiveness of a flood early warning system. The aim...

Preliminary Assessment of Debris Flow Hazard in a Catchment under Extreme Condition

Due to hilly terrain and frequent heavy rainstorms, debris flow is one of the most common and catastrophic hazards in Hong Kong. To mitigate the debris flow risk, prediction of the magnitude and consequence of debris flow is essential. The objective of this paper is to simulate debris flow hazards in a study area in Hong Kong. Assessment of the...