Avalanche hazard zoning and settlement development in Austria

Abstract

Hazard zoning has a tradition of over 50 years in Austria and is an essential part of natural hazard management. Both the criteria for zoning and the zones themselves have changed over this time. The criteria have been adapted and changed following significant events, e.g. after the avalanche disaster in Galtür in 1999. The zone definitions are also dynamic. They can be expanded due to climate change and extreme events. On the other hand, they are withdrawn once technical protection measures have been completed. This approach has different effects on settlement development and risk potential. Climatic changes and rising land-use requirements also increase the need for action in planning. Special solutions such as temporary access restrictions may also be necessary. The fact is that avalanche hazard areas are increasingly overlapping with settlement areas. Integral natural hazard management in which stakeholders from different disciplines work together is essential for future risk reduction. This contribution will discuss the different effects and challenges in the context of avalanche hazards and settlement development in the Alpine region. Practical examples will be used to illustrate the (future) challenges as well as legal issues.