ANALYSIS OF SNOW AVALANCHE TERRAIN

A multiple regression analysis has been performed of the average annual number of avalanches and terrain factors. Observations were made at 36 paths at Rogers Pass, British Columbia, over a period of 9 years. The average slope inclination measured from the starting point to the beginning of the run-out zone and exposure to wind proved to be the most significant variables. Slope angle at the starting point, variations over the track, and roughness of the ground surface were of secondary significance and their influence varied strongly from site to site. The analysis confirmed that avalanches need either a steep slope or a snow drift to start and a minimum inclination of track to maintain their motion.

• Corporate Authors:

  National Research Council of Canada

  1200 Montreal Road
  Ottawa, Ontario  Canada  K1A 0R6
• Authors:
  • Schraerer, P A
• Publication Date: 1977-8

Media Info

• Pagination: p. 281-287
• Serial:
  • CANADIAN GEOTECHNICAL JOURNAL
  • Volume: 14
  • Issue Number: 3
  • Publisher: National Research Council of Canada

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Avalanches; Forecasting; Probability; Snow; Snowfall; Statistical analysis
• Old TRIS Terms: Avalanches and slides; Snow and snowfall
• Subject Areas: Data and Information Technology; Railroads;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00170016
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: Engineering Index
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jan 30 1978 12:00AM