By Rachael Laritz, 2010 modified by T. Webb Avalanches By Rachael Laritz, 2010 modified by T. Webb

Definition rapid flow of snow down a slope, from either natural triggers or human activity. Typically occurring in mountainous terrain

Where does an avalanche occur ? Avalanches occur on slopes between 25 to 50 degrees. Avalanches start most often on slopes above the timberline that face away from prevailing winds.

How does an avalanche form ? They range from harmless bursts of sliding snow to powerful blasts--some striking with the force of 450 kg of dynamite.

primarily composed of flowing snow, and are distinct from mudslides, rock slides, and serac collapses on an icefall.

among the most serious objective hazards to life and property, with their destructive capability resulting from their potential to carry an enormous mass of snow rapidly over large distances.

morphological characteristics the type of snow involved, the nature of the failure, the sliding surface, the propagation mechanism of the failure, the trigger of the avalanche, the slope angle, direction, elevation.

Triggers additional precipitation radiative and convective heating rock fall ice fall

One Notable avalanche In 1993, a massive avalanche killed 60 individuals in the Uzengili Village of Bayburt province in Turkey.