A new index combining weak layer and slab properties for snow instability prediction

• Published in: Natural hazards and earth system sciences Vol. 15; no. 1; pp. 109 - 118
• Main Authors: Schweizer, J, Reuter, B
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Katlenburg-Lindau Copernicus GmbH 13.01.2015; Copernicus Publications
• Subjects: Comparative analysis; Crack propagation; Fracture mechanics; Mechanical properties; Slabs; Slope stability; Slopes; Snow; Stability; Stress concentration; Weather forecasting

Snow slope stability evaluation requires considering weak layer as well as slab properties – and in particular their interaction. We developed a stability index from snow micro-penetrometer (SMP) measurements and compared it to 129 concurrent point observations with the compression test (CT). The in...