Abstract
The opening up of the Alps for tourism has increased the risk potential from natural hazards, one of the greatest of which is debris flows. Since 1996 we have been studying the debris fan of Multetta above Tschierv in Val Müstair in the Swiss Alps to determine the dates and hence the frequency of debris flows. Abrupt growth changes, impact scars, and the formation of adventitious roots allowed precise dating by dendrochronological methods in cases where tree ring characteristics occurred synchronously in several different trees. Six debris flows since the late 15th century could be recognized, occurring at the end of the 15th century, and in 1573, 1655, 1784, 1958, and 1989. The debris deposited during the past 500 yr has formed a layer about 5 m deep. Two further debris flows were identified through scars formed in 1759 and 1837. A greater frequency of scars between the mid-18th century and the end of the 19th century indicates considerably higher morphological activity during the last peak of the Little Ice Age.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
