In order to better understand the distribution of permafrost in the Courchevel and Méribel-Mottaret ski areas, S3V has launched a specific study on this new natural risk.
This study is led by DOPA, which is supported by a geotechnical design office: SAGE INGENIERIE. The first results are expected in autumn 2024.
Why a study on permafrost?
Permafrost occurs at high altitudes (over 2 meters) in 500 forms:
- By ice in rock walls (cliffs)
- By ice mixed with rock debris in the subsoil (rock glacier)
Climate change is changing the balances in place. This is characterised on the ground by an increase in the melting of permafrost.
Infrastructure installed on these “unstable” soils is subject to ground movements which can jeopardize the proper functioning of current and future installations.
