Glazialhydrologisches Monitoring im Bereich des Rauriser Sonnblicks (Hohe Tauern, Österreich)

Abstract

Summary: The paper describes the glaciohydrological monitoring in the region of Rauriser Sonnblick, which is charcterised by long-term, comprehensive measurements of the glacier mass balance, the glacial discharge and the spatial distribution of precipitation and snow height. All investigated glaciers are less than 1.5 km2 in size. Annual precipitation in the Sonnblick region is high compared to another well established glacier monitoring in Austria (Rofenarche region, Tyrol). Thus climate sensitivity of glaciers in the Sonnblick region is much higher compared to the Rofenarche area. The analysis of available monitoring data from Sonnblick region reveals the high significance of the Alpine crest as a distinct climate divide. Consequently, winter accumulation is much more pronounced at Goldbergkees (north of the Alpine crest) compared to the Wurtenkees or Fleißkees which are situated south of the Alpine crest. Results from recently performed ice thickness measurements show values between approximate 80 to 150 m maximum ice thickness. The today status of the glacier monitoring in the Sonnblick-region is especially valuable for the calibration and validation of glaciohydrological models. © 2009 Springer-Verlag.