How is avalanche danger described in textual descriptions in avalanche forecasts in Switzerland? Consistency between forecasters and avalanche danger

Abstract. Effective and efficient communication of expected avalanche conditions danger to the public is great importance, especially where primary audience forecasts are recreational, non-expert users. In Europe, communicated using a pyramid, starting with ordinal levels progressing through avalanche-prone locations problems description. many forecast products, information relating trigger required release an avalanche, frequency or number potential triggering spots, size described exclusively in textual These descriptions are, however, least standardized part forecasts. Taking perspective forecaster focusing particularly on terms describing these three characterizing elements danger, we investigate first which meaning forecasters assign text second how relate level. We analyzed almost 6000 published Switzerland written structured catalogue phrases limited words. Words representing were labeled assigned classes by Swiss forecasters. then related danger. Forecasters relatively consistent assigning labels words Cohen's kappa values ranging from 0.64 0.87. Avalanche also consistently phrases, for example increasing monotonically However, level 2 (moderate), about key instance was often missing descriptions. general, analysis showed that extreme more detail than intermediate values, highlighting difficulty communicating neither rare nor frequent small large. Our results provide data-driven insights could be used refine ways communicated. Furthermore, semiotic triangle, referent (the situation) thought processing process) symbols description), alternative point future studies consistency communication.