Item: Avalanche Detection Systems for Operational Use: Summary of Three Years Experiences
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Title: Avalanche Detection Systems for Operational Use: Summary of Three Years Experiences
Proceedings: International Snow Science Workshop 2014 Proceedings, Banff, Canada
Authors:
- Arnold Kogelnig [ Wyssen Avalanche Control AG, Reichenbach, Switzerland ]
- Samuel Wyssen [ Wyssen Avalanche Control AG, Reichenbach, Switzerland ]
- Emanuele Marchetti [ Item s.r.l., Firenze, Italy ]
- Giacomo Uliveri [ Item s.r.l., Firenze, Italy ]
Date: 2014-09-29
Abstract: Avalanche detection systems have become more popular in recent years, however few people know of their capabilities and limitations. This article summarizes experiences gathered with the two most promising technologies for avalanche monitoring, radar and infrasound, in operational use for the last three years. In 2011 Wyssen Avalanche Control installed their first avalanche detections system, a Doppler Radar unit called LARA, in combination with avalanche towers in Ischgl, Austria. The purpose of the radar installation was i) Verification of the controlled release and ii) Gathering information about spontaneous avalanche activity. After some initial problems the system worked very satisfying the past three winters. The radar has the capability to detect also small avalanches (e.g. artificially released) very reliable. Up to now, five LARA systems are installed in Austria and Switzerland. Additionally, for a more widespread information, in 2012 IDA, an infrasound array consisting of 5 sensors, was installed, also in Ischgl, Austria. The infrasound technology allows monitoring of avalanche activity from all directions. The goal was to gather information about avalanche events from all avalanche paths in the area, to assist the local avalanche control team. Over the last years, these avalanche detection systems worked very reliable and showed their capability to support the avalanche control work.
Object ID: ISSW14_paper_P2.55.pdf
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s):
Keywords: detection, radar, infrasound, avalanches.
Page Number(s): 914-920
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