Animation 1: Crack propagation
This is an animation of the mechanics of a crack propagation that generates an avalanche you could get caught in. There are four steps necessary for the avalanche to materialise:

  1. Crack of the weak layer
  2. Propagation up of the crack
  3. Crown crack
  4. Propagation of crown crack

To read the article that explains these dynamics click here .
To see the animation click here.

Animation 2: How to get caught on the flat
This is an animation of the mechanics that will generate an avalanche in what can seem as the safest terrain. Note that the slope next to you does not necessarily have to be very steep for this scenario to be potentially quite dangerous to the skier.

To see the animation click here.


© 2011, All rights reserved Pierre Askmo