This book provides a critical update of the most recent and innovative
developments of avalanche science. It aims at re-founding avalanche
science on clear scientific bases, from field observations and
experiments up to mathematical and physical analysis and modeling. In
this respect, it stands in a still unoccupied but fundamental niche
amidst the abundant avalanche literature.
In the current context of a accelerated climate warming, the book also
discusses possible evolutions of snow cover extent and stability. It
also shows how the present analysis can be extended, in mountainous
areas, to other gravitationally induced phenomena that are likely to
take over from avalanches under specific circumstances.
The text is supported by online links to field experiments and lectures
on triggering mechanisms, risk management, and decision making.