Avalanche studies and model validation in Europe, SATSIE. Ryggfonn measurements. Winter 2002 / 2003 and 2003 / 2004

Abstract

This report presents data collected from the full-scale Ryggfonn project during the Winters 2002/2003 and 2003/2004. The weather and snow conditions described and when possible, the avalanches have been characterized according to the IAHS avalanche code and the deposit boundaries have been mapped. Measurements obtained from the avalanche path include pressure readings from two load cells at a steel tower, as well as avalanche pressure on three load cells fixed to a concrete structure. In addition, normal stress and shear stress were measured on two locations at a 16 high dam. Six geophones, placed on the ground in the runout zone, have detected vibrations from some of the passing avalanches. When possible, for each avalanche the front speeds have been estimated. The estimates are based on continuous-cave Doppler radar measurements, seismic measurements, and the timing between impacts on the constructions.The measurements obtained are briefly discussed and presented in graphs.