The EAWS matrix, a decision support tool to determine the regional avalanche danger level (Part B): operational testing and use

Techel, Frank; Müller, Karsten; Marquardt, Christopher; Mitterer, Christoph

doi:10.5194/nhess-26-1161-2026

Articles | Volume 26, issue 3

https://doi.org/10.5194/nhess-26-1161-2026

© Author(s) 2026. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

https://doi.org/10.5194/nhess-26-1161-2026

© Author(s) 2026. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Articles | Volume 26, issue 3

Research article

|

05 Mar 2026

Research article |

| 05 Mar 2026

The EAWS matrix, a decision support tool to determine the regional avalanche danger level (Part B): operational testing and use

Frank Techel, Karsten Müller, Christopher Marquardt, and Christoph Mitterer

Data sets

Data for publication: The EAWS Matrix, a decision support tool to determine the regional avalanche danger level (Part~B): Operational testing and use F. Techel, K. Müller, C. Mitterer et al. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18030373

Model code and software

Data for publication: The EAWS Matrix, a decision support tool to determine the regional avalanche danger level (Part~B): Operational testing and use F. Techel, K. Müller, C. Mitterer et al. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18030373

Short summary

We examined how avalanche forecasters across Europe use the EAWS (European Avalanche Warning Services) Matrix, a decision-support tool for determining regional avalanche danger levels. Although warning services apply the Matrix differently, we identified both consistent patterns and notable inconsistencies in its application. Our findings highlight where the Matrix works well and where clarification is needed, supporting more consistent and transparent avalanche information for the public.