Comparing the performance of base map scales in GIS-based avalanche simulation: a case study from Palandöken, Turkey

Snow avalanches are very complex and dynamic events that cause serious risk to human lives, infrastructure, and facilities in mountain environments. In this study, GIS-based avalanche simulations were investigated in terms of base map scale over the simulation sensitivity. Study area consisted of the avalanche region from Sultanseki Hill to Hodaklar Hill near the Palandöken skiing site in Erzurum, eastern part of Turkey. In analysis, 1:1,000 (field surveying), 1:5,000 (orthophoto) and 1:25,000 (standard topographic maps) scaled maps were used as base maps. The avalanche simulation was constructed by Triangulated Irregular Network (TIN) extracted from the base maps by using GIS-based ELBA+ simulation model. When 1:1,000-scaled map results were taken as reference simulations at 1:25,000-scaled maps, the best results for the potential area affected by avalanche and the maximum run-out distance were provided. Besides, using 1:5,000-scaled maps showed close correlation with the maximum track width, velocity, flow height, and pressure.