Conclusions on the current status on avalanche modelling

Abstract

An examination of existing models shows that: (1) there is not - and probably never will be - a single model that adequately describes all avalanche types; (2) in order to account for the extraordinary variability of avalanche motion in response to initial and boundary conditions, flow-regime transitions and the snow mass balance should be properly described in future models; (3) calibration and validation of these models will require a comprehensive measurement programme, (4) determination of realistic initial conditions is a serious problem.