High-resolution radar measurements of snow avalanches

Vriend, N. M. and McElwaine, JN and Sovilla, B and Keylock, CJ and Ash, M and Brennan, PV (2013) High-resolution radar measurements of snow avalanches. Geophysical Research Letters, 40 (4). pp. 727-731. ISSN 0094–8276 DOI https://doi.org/10.1002/grl.50134

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Abstract

Two snow avalanches that occurred in the winter 2010-2011 at Vallée de la Sionne, Switzerland, are studied using a new phased array FMCW radar system with unprecedented spatial resolution. The 5.3 GHz radar penetrates through the powder cloud and reflects off the underlying denser core. Data are recorded at 50 Hz and have a range resolution better than 1 m over the entire avalanche track. We are able to demonstrate good agreement between the radar results and existing measurement systems that record at particular points on the avalanche track. The radar data reveal a wealth of structure in the avalanche and allow the tracking of individual fronts and surges down the slope for the first time. Key Points Validation between our radar results and existing point measurement systems High-resolution radar allows tracking of fronts and surges from start to finish Velocity linked with topography may be used to measure rheology of snow ©2013. American Geophysical Union. All Rights Reserved.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	NILAREP
Subjects:	02 - Geodynamics, Geophysics and Tectonics
Divisions:	02 - Geodynamics, Geophysics and Tectonics
Journal or Publication Title:	Geophysical Research Letters
Volume:	40
Page Range:	pp. 727-731
Identification Number:	https://doi.org/10.1002/grl.50134
Depositing User:	Sarah Humbert
Date Deposited:	06 May 2020 21:29
Last Modified:	06 May 2020 21:29
URI:	http://eprints.esc.cam.ac.uk/id/eprint/4716

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