Abstract

This paper aims to present the results of a complex analysis of the morphodynamics of slopes affected by avalanches in Piatra Craiului Massif. The study of avalanches is a current issue of dynamic geomorphology and very little is discussed in the Romanian geographical literature. Although the presence of avalanches has been reported in the Carpathian area for centuries, geomorphological analyses were performed only in the context of regional studies. In recent years, approaches to nivation as an extreme or morphodynamic event increased. In this context, the present paper focuses on analyzing the relationship between factors leading to avalanches, geological structure, slopes, exhibition, climate and biological triggers, the characteristics of the landscape as a whole, the micro landforms of avalanche corridors, slope dynamics and avalanche activity on the entire area where there is potential for occurrence. Its purpose is to gather knowledge on useful resources that the informational systems operating on spatial data can provide to dynamic geomorphology or extreme events.

Key words: Morphodynamics of slopes, avalanches, decisive factors, micro landforms, avalanche corridors, Piatra Craiului Massif.