Impact des variations climatiques sur le manteau neigeux, incidence sur l'hydrologie nivale, les avalanches

Impact of climatic changes on snow caver, snow hydrology and avalanches

Météo-France, Centre national de recherches météorologiques, Centre d'études de la neige, 1441 rue de la Piscine, 38406 Saint Martin d'Hères Cedex

Abstract

The snow coverage of the mountain regions is closely related to winter meteorological conditions and their variations. This variability can be seen on some snow cover series. In order to assess the impact of climatic changes on snow cover and river flows a couple of numerical tools (from meteorological analysis to hydrological models) have been used. Six scenarios have been used in this study. A notable impact con be seen: diminution of snow coverage, modification of the spring high discharge, and complete change of the river regime in some conditions.