Field-Day 2025: Silent Witnesses
Sharpen your eye!
Rapid Hazard Assessment based on silent witnesses
Field-based methods to detect the hazardous character of catchments (flooding) and hillslopes (landslides). At the Field-Day we got answers to the following questions:
- Which hazard processes must be expected onsite?
- What was the frequency and intensity of earlier events?
- How can silent witnesses complement the hazard assessment?
Additionally, we also gained insight into the early warning system in the Emme catchment area.
Outline
Sound DRR programming relies on having solid assessment data. A robust hazard analysis is based on three methodological pillars: i) compilation of a historical profile usually in form of a community-based approach (vulnerability and capacity assessment), ii) mapping and analysis of terrain forms that reveal typical hazard processes (silent witnesses), and iii) a technical quantitative assessment, with the previous two steps used to check the plausibility of the calculations.
To support its member organisations, the Swiss NGO DRR Platform decided to organise a learning journey on hazard and risk assessment. In 2023 and 2024, the Platform conducted training courses on technical hazard and risk analysis. Part three will focus on the assessment pillar “Silent witnesses”, thereby completing the learning journey thematic cycle.
Audience
The field-day is aimed at staff working in Climate and Disaster Risk Management in programme countries as well as in head offices (in Switzerland and elsewhere). It is primarily geared towards staff of member organisations of the Swiss NGO DRR Platform as well as the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, but open to interested persons from non-member organisations.
Programme Elements
- Detecting and interpreting silent witnesses
- Mapping of silent witnesses
- If time permits: Knowing the early warning system of the Emme river
Programme and introductory presentation provide more details.
The photo selection gives you an idea of the day.
Presenter and facilitator
Georg Heim, Head of Water Engineering for Emmental Region, former SRC DRR Advisor
