Künstliche Intelligenz

Frank Techel is an avalanche forecaster and researcher at the SLF. He deals with the integration of models into operational avalanche forecasting and believes that there is great potential to improve avalanche warning when humans and machines work together. In the interview, he explains how "AI" supports the human SLF team in producing the bulletin and where the limits of the models lie.

An essential tool for off-piste skiing and ski touring is the avalanche report, also known as the avalanche bulletin. This has changed considerably over time. Not only does it appear more frequently - once or twice a day - but its spatial resolution has also become more detailed and precise. With the advance of artificial intelligence and the integration of model-based forecasts, new perspectives are opening up in avalanche warning.

Anton shares insights about his latest ski movie "SNOW" and the impact of technological advancements like FPV drones and AI on his filmmaking. The film draws a connection between the world of freeriding and the deep relationship indigenous cultures have with snow.

This season is full of new features. At the beginning of the season, we went online with the new website; now, as already announced, we are also going online in two languages. From March 2024, PowderGuide.com will be available in English as well as German. This will enable us to expand our readership and accessibility and create inclusion of the non-German-speaking Alpine region.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been on everyone's lips since the release of ChatGPT. AI is also increasingly being used in the field of avalanche warning and research. One current example is the CADS (Camera-based Avalanche Detection System) project, in which researchers from the Department of Computer Science at the University of Innsbruck have developed a model for recognising avalanches on webcam images together with Lo.La Peak Solutions GmbH.

Artificial intelligence and machine learning are the buzzwords of the moment in many areas and have been for the last few years. Corresponding techniques are also increasingly being used in snow and avalanche research. What exactly is AI, what are its concrete applications and what are the benefits?

Apparently, a new type of avalanche prevention device was announced at the ISPO in Munich. The AvyScanner is a small radar that scans the snow cover.