Item: Back-Calculation of Small Avalanches with the 2D Avalanche Dynamics Model Ramms: Four Events Artificially Triggered at the Seehore Test Site in Aosta Valley (NW Italy)
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Title: Back-Calculation of Small Avalanches with the 2D Avalanche Dynamics Model Ramms: Four Events Artificially Triggered at the Seehore Test Site in Aosta Valley (NW Italy)
Proceedings: Proceedings, 2012 International Snow Science Workshop, Anchorage, Alaska
Authors:
- M. Maggioni [ Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, Forestali e Alimentari and NatRisk-LNSA, University of Torino, Italy ]
- M. Freppaz [ Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, Forestali e Alimentari and NatRisk-LNSA, University of Torino, Italy ]
- M. Christen [ WSL-SLF Davos, Switzerland ]
- P. Bartelt [ WSL-SLF Davos, Switzerland ]
- E. Zanini [ Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, Forestali e Alimentari and NatRisk-LNSA, University of Torino, Italy ]
Date: 2012
Abstract: Avalanche dynamics models are widely used to simulate extreme avalanches for hazard mapping purposes; they are well developed and calibrated on numerous real events. Only recently have small avalanches been studied, mainly for problems related to the safety of ski runs and roads. For small avalanches the physical processes within the avalanche flow are important, as they are not included in the calibrated Voellmy friction coefficients μ and x. Presently, researchers have started to develop avalanche dynamics models that include the physical processes associated with granular characteristics of the avalanche. Snow entrainment and deposition processes along the avalanche path are likewise modeled. In this work, we use one of these newly developed models, RAMMS, to back-calculate four well-documented avalanches artificially triggered at the experimental test site of Seehore in Aosta Valley (Northwest Italy), operative since 2009. The events are mostly small-size dense slab avalanches, triggered for scientific investigations. Snow characteristics and flow characteristics were recorded with field work, laser scan measurements, photogrammetry and specific instruments on an obstacle placed along the track to measure impact forces. The collected data are used to tune the RAMMS input parameters in order to reproduce the real events. We present the simulations results and highlight the importance of including erosion and deposition parameters in the investigation of small avalanches.
Object ID: issw-2012-591-598.pdf
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s): unknown
Keywords: avalanche dynamics, hazard mapping, photogrammetry,
Page Number(s): 591-598
Subjects: snow avalanche dynamics avalanche simulation avalanche forecasting
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