Assessing Post-Fire Rockfall Hazards: A Case Study of Hazard System Adaptation and Application in Evros, Greece

The impacts of climate change, including rising temperatures and severe droughts, have intensified wildfires globally, with increased frequency, severity, and extent. Forests reduce the occurrence of rockfalls and increase their intensity since the slope’s vegetation constrains the trajectory. Consequently, the destruction of vegetation following a wildfire may potentially cause higher and more intense rockfall activity. In this paper, we first evaluate the effects of forest destruction on a local scale by studying a specific site impacted by the 2023 Evros Wildfire, aiming to identify the key factors. Next, we modify existing rockfall hazard rating systems to incorporate these key factors in a user-friendly way. Finally, we apply this system on a regional scale to the area affected by the 2023 Evros Wildfire. The modified system produced results indicating a significant increase in exposure and risk following the wildfire. This information helps to identify vulnerable sites and prioritize them systematically, facilitating informed decision-making regarding restoration strategies.