Concept in Definition ABC

In Spanish avalanche and avalanche are synonymous terms. In any case, it is a natural phenomenon related to snow. It consists of a large mass of snow moving rapidly velocity from an elevated position in the Mountain in the downward direction.

The volume of snow is considerable and this makes the avalanche a dangerIt can bring down trees, knock down houses or cover entire populations with snow.

If the appropriate preventive measures are not taken, the force the avalanche can cause casualties. Although the avalanche or snow avalanche is the most common, it also occurs when the mountain mud becomes an overwhelming force.

How does a snowfall occur and how do you react?

If the snow that accumulates in the mountains remains stable, there is no danger. However, it is relatively common for the excessive volume of snow on slopes to produce an imbalance that alters the cohesion of the snow. When this imbalance occurs, the avalanche is triggered, which can also be caused by the abundant rains or by the intense wind.

Mountaineers and hikers who frequent mountainous areas have to exercise extreme caution and prevent possible snowfalls. First of all, it is necessary to find out about the weather situation before starting the day. In addition, it is necessary to know the data related to the risk of avalanches (most scales go from 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest level of risk). It is advisable not to go out to the mountains during peak hours exposition solar, as the action of heat can melt snow and trigger an avalanche.

Those who frequent mountain areas usually have specific training on the prevention of avalanches. In the event that an avalanche goes in the direction of the mountaineers, it is necessary to leave that path of the snow as as soon as possible and for this it is advisable to get rid of skis or snowshoes, as these elements act as anchor.

Mudslides

In this case, abundant rains play a fundamental role, since the excess of water on the mountain causes the soil to become saturated with water and the land loses stability and firmness. As a consequence, the earth is moving in the form of mud. Likewise, the melting of the mountain peaks is another of the factors that trigger this type of phenomenon.

The mudslides are logically dangerous for the crops and for the populations located in the mountainous slopes. On the other hand, some territories with frequent mudslides end up having a problem of deforestation. To combat this situation there are two basic strategies: extensive reforestation of mountain areas and building of engineering works that serve as a brake on avalanches.

Photo: Fotolia - Darwel