Avalanches, Blizzards and Snowstorms - the Dangers of Snow

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Why We Should Learn About Dangerous Snow Conditions

Snowstorms develop when warm, moist air collides with cold air. Blizzards are heavy falling snow storms that come with high winds that blow the snow so hard sometimes you can't see anything around you.

Avalanche size can range from very small and harmless to so large they could bury people, break trees and buildings, or knock over automobiles and railroad train cars!

Another reason to find out about snow crystal type is because very heavy snow can cause roofs of houses and buildings to cave in, make tree limbs snap and break power lines.

Why should anyone care about different types of snowflakes and ice crystals?

Avalanches happen when snowpack suddenly gives way and snow slides down a mountain, incline or across a road or highway.

Here is a good link that explains about the Types of Spring and Summer Avalanches

They also issue warnings to mountain hikers and skiers to potentially dangerous snow conditions.

Check these pictures of a few avalanche disasters and close calls:

Avalanches Happen

• Avalanches!
• Here's what's left of a vacation chalet built in the path of an avalanche
• This movie shows a skier out-running an avalanche
• Here are a couple of lucky snow boarders digging themselves out of an avalanche
• Here's an interesting photo of a Forecaster predicting the Weather

Avalanche Centers

• Center for Snow and Avalanche Studies
• Idaho Panhandle National Forest Avalanche Center
• Canadian Avalanche Association
• Cyberspace Snow and Avalanche Center
• Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center

Blizzards and Snowstorms

Blizzards are very dangerous snow conditions for people driving cars or trucks or flying in airplanes.

The best place to be in a blizzard is at home in front of a warm fireplace!

Blizzard! Definition from Wikipedia, the free online encyclopedia

Ski resorts and other winter vacation spots depend upon heavy snowfall and blizzards to keep their ski slopes packed full of good, soft, skiable snow. When they don't get enough snow, some resorts make their own snow with snow-making machines!

Cross your eyes to see a Stereo Snowflake

How to Capture a Snowflake

Learn how to build a real igloo with your children