Multi-method geophysical prospecting of alpine permafrost in the southern Swiss Alps

The multi-method geophysical prospecting of alpine permafrost in the Sceru Valley (southern Swiss Alps, Ticino Canton) with thermal methods (spring temperature and ground surface temperature monitoring), DC-resistivity method (Vertical Electrical Sounding) and electromagnetic methods (VLF-R and conductivity-meter EM 31), allowed determining the permafrost distribution and characteristics in the investigated rockglaciers and talus slopes. The permafrost distribution is quite homogeneous in the rockglaciers, where it is generally controlled by the topoclimatic conditions of the site. In the talus slopes, the permafrost distribution is quite heterogeneous and the probability of permafrost occurrence decreases upslope. The main processes controlling this particular permafrost distribution are the chimney effect, the redistribution of snow by wind and avalanches and, finally, the increase of grain size downslope. The study also allowed testing electromagnetic methods and to validating their application in the prospecting of alpine permafrost.