Item: On the Predictability of Snow Avalanches
-
-
Title: On the Predictability of Snow Avalanches
Proceedings: Proceedings Whistler 2008 International Snow Science Workshop September 21-27, 2008
Authors:
- Jürg Schweizer [ WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, Davos, Switzerland ]
Date: 2008-09-22
Abstract: Snow avalanches are generally rare and occasionally extreme events. In the general context of prediction and predictably of extreme events, we will examine whether snow avalanches are predictable based on a few examples of forecasts at different scales. Clearly, avalanche predictability depends on scale. When the regional avalanche danger is High or Very High (Extreme), an avalanche is likely somewhere in the region. However, even at such high danger levels, the release probability in a single avalanche path is well below 50% (typically on the order of 1-10%). This means that a single avalanche is a rare event, which is not predictable even when higher danger levels prevail. At the lower danger levels - relevant for backcountry recreation - the release probability is significantly lower. The low release probability does not mean that the risk is low. Even with low occurrence probability the risk might be too high to be acceptable so that comprehensive preventive measures are required.
Object ID: P__8205.pdf
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s): Jürg Schweizer
Keywords: snow stability evaluation, avalanche forecasting, risk management
Page Number(s): 688
Subjects: avalanche forecasting avalanche stability avalanche risk management
-