Measurement of Temperature Gradient in Seasonal Snowpack using Improved Automated Temperature Profiler

• Published in: Defense science journal Vol. 61; no. 6; pp. 554 - 558
• Main Authors: Das, Rajiv, Garg, Rajesh, Ganju, Ashwagosha
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New Delhi Defence Scientific Information & Documentation Centre 01.11.2011
• Subjects: Measurement techniques; Snow; Temperature effects
• ISSN: 0011-748X; 0976-464X
• DOI: 10.14429/dsj.61.379

Snow temperature profile is an important input parameter for assessing the thermal state of snowpack. The individual layers of a snowpack can be weakened by various metamorphic processes occurring due to temperature gradient present within the snowpack and may result in avalanche hazard. The profile of snowpack temperatures also affects snowmelt runoff magnitude and timing, and hence, may cause wet avalanches. The design of an automated instrument for the measurement of snow temperature profiles in a snowpack is discussed. The instrument was designed to operate in stand-alone mode and is capable of measuring and logging data of twelve vertical temperature-sensing probes throughout the winter. It is suitable for measurement of snow temperature profiles in areas which are inaccessible to human during winters. The design considerations, field deployment, results, and future scope of work for the instrument is discussed in detail.