Lessons learnt from the snow emergency management of winter season 2008–2009 in Piemonte

摘要

The winter season 2008–2009 has been characterized by heavy snowfalls overthe western Alps. The snowfalls have been exceptional because of theirearliness, persistence, intensity and territorial spread. The impact on theregional environment and territory has been relevant, also from theeconomical point of view, as well as the effort of the people involved inthe forecasting, prevention and fighting actions. The environmental inducedeffects have been shown until late spring. Several snowfall events affectedalso the plains and the main towns, causing social impacts. The purpose ofthis work is to describe the overall effects of the anomalous snowfalls andthe emergency response by the local government and institutions to face thehazard scenario and mitigate the risk for people, properties andenvironment. Arpa Piemonte (Regional Agency for Environmental Protection)gave the technical support to the snow emergency management borrowing theexpertise acquired during the heavy hydrological events occurred in thePiemonte region and contributing to minimize losses. A short list ofrecommendations came out from the experience, as well as the technical toolsand products, all highlighting the emergency preparedness relevance.