Avalanches

Question 1

What is an avalanche

Answer 1

An avalanche is a massive snow and ice that moves very rapidly down a mountain side.

Question 2

What are the physical causes of avalanches

Answer 2

-heavy snow fall
-small earthquakes
-melting weakens the layers of snow and ice. Turning unstable.

Question 3

Human causes of avalanches

Answer 3

People skiing or snowboarding can cause increase in pressure on the layers of snow this can cause an avalanche

Question 4

Ways in which to reduce the chances of an avalanche happening

Answer 4

-experts monitor the state of the snow.
-weather warnings can be issued of areas thought to be at risk
-wooden fences can be built on a slope to hold back the snow
-trees hold snow together
-trees also break up smaller avalanches preventing them from becoming dangerous. Roads and buildings that are at risk from avalanches can have shutes built to protect them