Researchers from the University of Calgary are currently conducting tests in the Crowsnest Pass and Rogers Pass, in order to determine the effectiveness and accuracy of using infrared cameras in avalanche prediction.
Researchers from the university’s Schulich School of Engineering have spent the last year developing the technology in order to aid backcountry enthusiasts about possible avalanches.
The cameras measure minute temperature fluctuations in packed snow, which is one of the main factors in avalanche creation.
Researchers are looking most closely at melt-freeze crusts, which are formed when layers of snow become wet and freeze, and are then buried by layers of fresh snow.
The more this happens, the less stable the snow bank becomes, and the more likely the possibility of an avalanche.
Of course, there are additional factors which can increase the possibility of an avalanche occurring, such as weather, terrain, type of snow, noise, etc., but researchers are confident that this is a step in the right direction.
Over the past decade, nearly 150 deaths have been recorded in the Southern Canadian Rockies by the Canadian Avalanche Centre, including 12 last season.
While the fatality rate for backcountry skiers has decreased, an increased death toll among snowmobilers has been observed.
As a result, the CAC is encouraging snowmobiling clubs to educate members and enthusiasts through avalanche prevention and education courses.
The Crow Snow Riders will be holding a Back Country Snowmobiling Safety presentation on January 15th at 6 p.m. at the Lions Hall in Blairmore, presented by Jeremy Hanke and Teck Coal.
Admission is $15, or free for Teck employees.