Mathematical modeling and simulation study of snow avalanche dynamics

A comparative analysis of existing methods for snow avalanche modeling – physical, simulation, and numerical approaches based on continuum mechanics. Their assumptions, limitations, and application features have been identified, which hinder accurate prediction of snow mass dynamics and its interaction with obstacles under natural conditions. It has been shown that the further development of avalanche hazard forecasting and emergency response methods is associated with the use of intelligent decision-support information systems that should possess high scalability, the ability to process large data volumes, and a flexible architecture that allows integration of new modules for modeling, analysis, and data visualization. To address the problem of three-dimensional avalanche flow modeling, a hybrid approach is proposed that combines the advantages of physical and simulation models, ensuring computational efficiency and adaptability of the method to various avalanche formation conditions. A model of snow mass movement has been developed, based on a modified numerical method of smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH). A distinctive feature of the method is the use of dimensionless adjustable coefficients instead of constant physical parameters of snow and the application of a hyperbolic smoothing function, which increases the stability and accuracy of numerical calculations while preventing nonphysical particle clustering during compression. The performed computational experiments confirmed that the proposed model adequately describes the motion of snow masses, makes it possible to assess the intensity of their interaction with infrastructure objects, and allows prediction of potential destructive effects in avalanche-prone areas.

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