How much snow does there need to be for an avalnche to happen?

Question

Im not talking like new snow, but as a base. I'm guessing like 3-4 feet, but I have no clue.

Im talking about base here people. I know u only need like 3 or 4 inches on top of an icey base to get an avalanche, but I want 2 know how much of a base u need.

Answer 1

An avalanche can happen with just a foot of snow (even less) if it's on top of snow that has already iced over.
Much more to it than amount.

Answer 2

less than 3 feet, I'm sure.

but there's a lot that goes into this. Water weight, aspect, angle, load, weak points, convex/concave contour...

snow science is fairly complicated.

I will check my book tomorrow, see if I can find a slightly more specific answer. If there is one, I will add it!

EDIT:

I did know you were only speaking of base. The things I mentioned need to be considered in avalanche dangers...regardless of base. In fact, as Paul G. mentions below, an avalanche can occur with no established base...although that is less likely as new snow bonds to the ground fairly well. If you have just a tiny base though, then a weak layer, and a two foot storm, you could have a huge avalanche with only a 1 inch base.

Answer 3

As Just Hangin said, snow science is very complicated. There are numerous factors that contribute to avalanches. These include but aren't limited to, base depth, temperature, recent snowfall, wind, humidty, location, slope aspect and many more. Also, avalanches can occur with fresh snowfall on no base snow, fresh snowfall on a significant amount of base snow and they can occur without any fresh snow.

Here's a good link with tons of info:

http://www.avalanche.org/

Answer 4

a lot more. avalanches usually happen in the mountains where there's continuous snow. much more than 3-4 feet usually are needed.

Answer 5

Depends on the angle of the slope to determine the amount of snow it would take to cause an avalanche.

Answer 6

The worst thing is a little snow a little ice and again and again. When you carve it pushes the layers and it start to slide. Does not have to be that deep just lots of layers will slide. dig a hasty pit and test the snow every run, cause it will change allot with the temperature. Wear a PEP!!! and your friend to!!!!and know how to use it, cause it will save your life!!