Item: Key to Success for the Norwegian Avalanche Center: Merging of Theoretical and Practical Knowhow
-
-
Title: Key to Success for the Norwegian Avalanche Center: Merging of Theoretical and Practical Knowhow
Proceedings: International Snow Science Workshop Grenoble – Chamonix Mont-Blanc - October 07-11, 2013
Authors:
- Solveig Kosberg [ Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate, Middelthunsgate 29, 0301 Oslo, Norway ]
- Karsten Müller [ Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate, Middelthunsgate 29, 0301 Oslo, Norway ]
- Markus Landrø [ Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate, Middelthunsgate 29, 0301 Oslo, Norway ]
- Ragnar Ekker [ Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate, Middelthunsgate 29, 0301 Oslo, Norway ]
- Rune Engeset [ Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate, Middelthunsgate 29, 0301 Oslo, Norway ]
Date: 2013-10-07
Abstract: Norway has chosen a quite practical approach to avalanche forecasting. Field observations from the more than 50 professional observers are very important, partly because of few weather stations in the mountain areas. Their qualitative assessment is valued higher than raw data about the snowpack. Many of the observers are professional mountain guides; they provide important competence and also contribute to the bulletins credibility amongst users. NPRA (Norwegian Public Roads Administration) as a professional user also provides important observations, and will join the forecaster group next season. The forecaster group consist of 18-20 people with very different professional background; this ensures an exciting work environment where forecasters learn from each other. The forecasters have solid theoretical background; the training focuses a lot on the practical evaluations in the forecasting job, including how the observers work. Many of the forecasters are observers as well. Most of the forecasters have the personal interest in snow and backcountry skiing in common, this is probably one of the reasons why the collaboration works so well. The biggest advantages of the chosen practical approach are quality, credibility and inspired forecasters and observers. The model, of course has some challenges, like possibility for human errors, personal style differences and safety during field work. Improving these sections will be important the next years.
Object ID: ISSW13_paper_P1-21.pdf
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s): Unknown
Keywords: avalanche forecasting, field observations, practical knowhow, training
Page Number(s): 316-319
Subjects: avalanche forecasting field observations avalanche training
-