On the Flow of Avalanching Snow

• Published in: Journal of Glaciology
• Main Author: Heimgartner, M.
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Cambridge University Press (CUP) 1977
• Subjects: Earth-Surface Processes; Journal of Glaciology
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0022143000029385; https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/S0022143000029385

Abstract Variation of flow depth of a flowing avalanche caused by a change in the slope angle is examined using Bernoulli’s energy equation, used in hydraulics to determine a non-uniform steady flow. This equation is modified for a material with internal friction and a strongly curved track. The calculated flow depths are compared with those obtained by tests with a snow slide. In the flow model dry and turbulent friction are taken into account. Friction coefficients are estimated comparing calculated and measured flow depths. It appears that in wet snow they differ from those of dry snow. Finally, this model is used to calculate the runout distance of a natural avalanche.