more about

Snow, Slopes and Triggers...

Understanding how snow forms layers in the snow pack and changes over time under the influence of the weather; and the influence of different types of slope and terrain features; and also how avalanches are triggered, are all essential background knowledge to safe travel in avalanche terrain.

The study of weather, snow and avalanches are interesting scientific subjects and fields of specialist research.  Many countries have national institutes and, or, universities that specialise in these subjects (some are listed on the links page).  The technical information and knowledge produced by these institutions is usually collected for reasons such as predictions about climate change, future water supplies, and the protection of buildings and communication infrastructure, etc.).  However, the information is also extremely useful for snow sport recreation, and some of the institutions specialise in winter sports safety awareness and accident prevention (see their websites for information and materials).

There are several good books (see side panel) about travel in avalanche terrain that are excellent sources of information.  Some magazines like Couloir Magazine and Off-Piste Magazine have websites and produce product review and safety awareness material.  But books and magazines alone are not a substitute for training, practice, and experience.

For a summary of key points about snow, slopes and triggers for travel in avalanche terrain see Great White Fright published in BMC Summit Magazine and Caution Avalanches published by the Swiss Avalanche Institute.

White Risk

Interactive CD produced by the Swiss Avalanche Institute and 'leisure time safety'.