Avalanche Detection Using Infra-Sound Techniques

Posted by timothy on Sunday February 16, 2003 @11:39AM from the three-second-warning dept.

Makarand writes "Extremely sensitive 'micro-barometers' that measure changes in air pressure caused by infra-sound waves generated by nuclear explosions are used worldwide in nuclear test-ban monitoring systems. Now this same technology is being tested in Colorado, Utah, California and Montana for detecting avalanches using infra-sound techniques and extending the coverage of forecasts. An avalanche slide in addition to being audible to people nearby also generates infra-sounds -- very low frequency sound waves far below the threshold of human hearing -- that can be detected from many kilometres away by micro-barometers. Since the speed of sound is 10 times faster than the speed of an avalanche these detectors might be able to give people enough warning in advance to take cover."

1 of 9 comments (clear)

Min score:

Reason:

Sort:

Won't help... by KDan · 2003-02-16 11:49 · Score: 3, Funny

...those on the slopes.

Most die from avalanches which they themselves start. I don't see how a "beep beep beep - you've just started an avalanche under your own feet" is going to help much.

Daniel

--
Carpe Diem