Jump to content

IFMGA guides in the Lyngen area: Join the daily online guide-meetings: guidemeeting.no

We recomend that all skiers download the free Varsom app on App Store or Google Play.

Read more about how to read and share observations on Varsom app and Regobs system | Varsom.no.

Ski touring in Norway - important information | Varsom.no

Characteristics

  • The entire snowpack glides over the ground, typically on smooth ground such as grassy slopes or smooth rock-zones.
  • High glide-snow avalanche activity typically results from a thick snowpack with no or only few weak layers.
  • Glide snow avalanches can occur with both a cold dry snowpack and a warm wet snowpack.
  • The release of a glide-snow avalanche is difficult to predict, although glide cracks open usually before a release.

Spatial distribution

  • Predominant on smooth ground (rock or grass) and on every aspect.
  • Varying steepness.

Trigger mechanisms

  • Glide-snow avalanches are caused by a loss of adhesion at the snow / ground interface.
  • The snowpack is gliding due to gravity.

Location of weak layer in the snowpack

Avalanches release at the snow/gruond interface.

Duration

  • Days to months; occasionally during entire winter season.
  • The release can occur at any time of day or night.
  • In the spring, glide-snow avalanches occur most often during the latter part of the day.

Identification of the problem

  • With the presence of glide cracks the problem can often be localized; however, they do not indicate imminent avalanche release.
  • Avalanche release timing is nearly impossible to predict.
  • Avalanche release without pre-existing glide cracks is also possible.