For communities living in snowy mountainous regions of the world, avalanches represent an ever present danger for a significant portion of the year, threatening transport links, settlements and also sport enthusiasts who visit the mountains in winter.
As many of these areas become more densely populated and the economic return from recreational activities fundamental, it has become vital that the threat from avalanche damage is understood and minimised. A knowledge of avalanche mechanics and behaviour is essential in planning future infrastructure developments and in the protection of those already in existence. In areas heavily reliant on snow season tourism, safety and the wellbeing of visitors is vital to economic growth. Approximately 100 lives are lost annually in the European alps due to avalanche related disasters, understanding the risks is key to managing and minimising the threat avalanche events pose.
