Avalanches Flashcards
What is an avalanche
An avalanche is a massive snow and ice that moves very rapidly down a mountain side.
What are the physical causes of avalanches
-heavy snow fall
-small earthquakes
-melting weakens the layers of snow and ice. Turning unstable.
Human causes of avalanches
People skiing or snowboarding can cause increase in pressure on the layers of snow this can cause an avalanche
Ways in which to reduce the chances of an avalanche happening
-experts monitor the state of the snow.
-weather warnings can be issued of areas thought to be at risk
-wooden fences can be built on a slope to hold back the snow
-trees hold snow together
-trees also break up smaller avalanches preventing them from becoming dangerous. Roads and buildings that are at risk from avalanches can have shutes built to protect them