Snow cornice

Snow cornice

Snow cornice

A snow cornice is an overhanging mass of snow, ice, and windblown debris that forms along the crest of a mountain ridge, cliff, or other sharp terrain feature. These formations are created by the wind as it transports snow from the windward side of a ridge to the leeward side, where it accumulates and compacts over time. Snow cornices are significant in mountaineering, skiing, and avalanche safety due to their potential to break off and trigger avalanches.

Formation

Snow cornices form when wind carries snow over the edge of a ridge or cliff, depositing it on the leeward side. The snow accumulates and compacts, creating an overhanging structure. The process involves several stages:

• **Initial deposition**: Wind transports snow from the windward side to the leeward side.
• **Compaction**: The deposited snow compacts under its own weight and the influence of wind.
• **Growth**: Continuous deposition and compaction cause the cornice to grow outward and downward.

Hazards

Snow cornices pose several hazards:

• **Avalanche trigger**: The collapse of a snow cornice can trigger an avalanche, posing a significant risk to skiers, snowboarders, and mountaineers.
• **Fall risk**: Individuals traveling on a ridge with a cornice may inadvertently step on the overhanging section, leading to a fall if the cornice breaks.
• **Unpredictability**: Cornices can break off unexpectedly, making them difficult to predict and avoid.

Safety Measures

To mitigate the risks associated with snow cornices, several safety measures can be taken:

• **Route planning**: Avoid traveling on or near ridges with visible cornices.
• **Observation**: Regularly observe and assess the stability of cornices from a safe distance.
• **Education**: Gain knowledge about snow cornices and their associated risks through avalanche safety courses and training.

Related Pages

• Avalanche
• Mountaineering
• Skiing
• Snowboarding
• Avalanche safety

Snow cornice Resources
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