Alternate Methods for the Artificial Release of Snow Avalanches

Abstract A series of devices have been developed and tested which are designed to initiate the release of snow avalanches by mechanically disturbing or altering the snow cover. These serve as substitutes for the conventional use of high explosives and artillery projectiles. Canister charged with an explosive mixture of gases can be fired electrically by remote control and recycled to fire again as needed. Air bags placed underneath the snow cover can be inflated with reasonably low pressure to disrupt and dislodge the snow cover. Energetic vibrators powered by compressed air can dislodge unstable snow under favorable circumstances. A polyethylene membrane placed on the ground surface of a sleep mountainside effectively inhibits the accumulation of snow by allowing new snow to slide off as fast as it accumulates. All of these methods have led to the practical release of avalanches but none appear a universal a universal solution to avalanche release in all circumstances. The gas exploder system is the most promising to date and is currently being installed for operational use.