Projects for Past Avalanche Observation and Zoning in France, After 1999 Catastrophic Avalanches

Abstract

In 1999, several huge avalanches caused catastrophes in the Alps, particularly in Chamonix (France). Following these events, several programs were improved or developed in France. Firstly, the programs of past avalanche observation have been confirmed. They concern i) the avalanche permanent survey (a past event observation on 5000 avalanche sites), ii) the past avalanche map, and iii) the selected event investigations. Important multiple year projects allow to continue, to update and to improve these programs. Secondly, others projects have been launched concerning classification of avalanche risk areas and doctrine for land-use zoning with regards to avalanche constraints. The article gives an overview of the projects. It details their main characteristics and show examples of methods and products.