Item: Merging of Recent Developments in Avalanche Simulation Technology into Practice
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Title: Merging of Recent Developments in Avalanche Simulation Technology into Practice
Proceedings: International Snow Science Workshop 2014 Proceedings, Banff, Canada
Authors:
- Yves Bühler [ WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, Davos, Switzerland ]
- Marc Christen [ WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, Davos, Switzerland ]
- Lisa Dreier [ WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, Davos, Switzerland ]
- Thomas Feistl [ WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, Davos, Switzerland ]
- Perry Bartelt [ WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, Davos, Switzerland ]
Date: 2014-09-29
Abstract: Numerical simulations are essential for hazard mapping and mitigation measure planning in avalanche engineering. Avalanche experts rely on numerical models to study various hazard scenarios, investigating the influence of release zone location and dimension on runout distances, velocities and impact pressures in general three-dimensional terrain. However, new demands are arising from avalanche practice. Users wish to investigate avalanche-obstacle interaction, use the model to study the runout dynamics of small avalanches and understand the dynamics of wet and powder avalanches. In response, new numerical schemes have been implemented to improve the stability of the numerical calculations, especially in steep, rough terrain, including snowcover entrainment. The standard Voellmy model has been updated to include snow cohesion, which improves the prediction of the stopping behavior of dense snow avalanches. However, future applications will require fundamentally new physical models of avalanche flow. The next generation of numerical models is now in the testing phase. These models account for the granular and temperature dependent nature of snow avalanches. With these features it is possible to predict streamwise density variations in the avalanche core and powder cloud, improving predictions of avalanche impact pressure. As the temperature of the snowcover defines the thermal flow regime, wet snow avalanches can be simulated, including the lubricating role of melt water on avalanche runout. The new models, however, will require more detailed specification of the avalanche track and snow conditions. In this paper we present new features implemented in RAMMS and discuss upcoming novel model approaches including their limitations
Language of Article: English
Presenters:
Keywords: RAMMS, numerical simulation, hazard mapping, mitigation measure planning
Page Number(s): 678-685
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Digital Abstract Not Available
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