snöprofilen

Snöprofilen, often translated as snow profile or snowpack structure, refers to the vertical layering and properties of accumulated snow. Understanding the snow profile is crucial for avalanche forecasting, as different layers within the snowpack can exhibit varying strengths and weaknesses.

A snow profile is typically examined by digging a snow pit down to the ground or a less disturbed layer. Observers then analyze the different layers of snow based on several characteristics. These include snow type (e.g., new snow, faceted crystals, rounded grains, depth hoar), grain size, hardness, temperature, and moisture content. The interfaces between these layers are particularly important, as they can represent weak layers that may fail under stress.

The formation of a snow profile is a continuous process influenced by weather conditions. New snowfall adds to the existing snowpack, and subsequent temperature changes, wind, and solar radiation alter the structure of the snow layers. For instance, temperature gradients within the snowpack can cause crystals to change shape, often leading to the formation of weaker, faceted crystals, especially in colder, buried layers. Wind can create denser, harder layers or deposit snow in unstable formations like cornices.

Analyzing a snow profile helps forecasters identify potential avalanche problems by revealing the presence of weak layers, their bonding to overlying snow, and the overall stability of the snowpack. This information is then combined with weather forecasts and observations of recent avalanche activity to assess the avalanche danger.