Avalanches are rare but potentially devastating natural hazards in alpine regions. In Austria, decades of experience with historical disaster events have led to the development of a dense and internationally recognised system of prevention, warning, and protection mechanisms. How these structures interact today—and why their continuous evolution is essential—is examined in the article "Between Risk and Resilience – Avalanche Hazard in the Alps," published in the Blaulicht magazine (January 2026).

The article highlights that effective avalanche risk management is not based on isolated measures, but rather on the systematic interplay of scientific research, operational practice, and clearly defined institutional frameworks. Hazard zone planning, avalanche warning services, local avalanche commissions, and technical protection measures together form a robust safety network. In particular, the contribution underscores the importance of local expertise, which complements regional forecasts with site-specific knowledge such as snowpack structure or historical avalanche events.

A further focus is placed on the growing role of technical and digital tools in avalanche prevention and response. Advanced modelling and simulation systems, as well as monitoring technologies, enable more precise risk assessments and provide critical decision support—both in long-term planning and during acute crisis situations.

From the perspective of the Disaster Competence Network Austria, the article serves as a strong example of how scientific knowledge can be successfully translated into practical application. This research–practice transfer lies at the core of DCNA’s mission: making knowledge accessible, connecting stakeholders across sectors, and supporting evidence-based approaches to disaster risk reduction and crisis management.

The article was authored by Anna Heuberger, Matthias Walcher, Leonardo Zoltan, and Christoph Hesselbach (all Austrian Society for Snow and Avalanche Research), as well as Jan-Thomas Fischer (Austrian Society for Snow and Avalanche Research / Federal Research Centre for Forests).