New publication on permafrost-related rock slope failure mechanisms exploring how surface ice loss boosts permafrost degradation, rockfall activity, and enhances hydrostatic pressure buildup

Our new study explores thermo-hydro-mechanical feedback mechanisms, demonstrating their efficacy in preparing permafrost rock slope failures. Ice aprons (thin, non-flowing surface ice typically found in steep slopes above a cirque glacier) are visible indicators of permafrost. Yet, they are vanishing at high speed in the last few decades.
Today's ice aprons delineate areas that are likely to become localized hotspots of future rockfall activity and possibly even large slope failures. As the identification of future permafrost rock slope failure remains a major challenge even in 2026, these areas might be worth closer observation.

Find the paper here:
Pfluger, F., Weber, S., Barbosa, N., Hofmeister, F., Leinauer, J., Wegmann, P., and Krautblatter, M.: How ice apron loss and permafrost degradation promoted the Platteikogel rock slope failure: a thermo-mechanical reconstruction, Earth Surf. Dynam., 14, 601–634, https://doi.org/10.5194/esurf-14-601-2026, 2026.