JUNEAU, ALASKA – Avalanche detection technology is taking a step forward in the mountains of Alaska as Snowbound Solutions pioneers the use of infrasound for monitoring high mountain avalanches. The company is teaming up with Boise State University researchers to develop sensors that can pick up low-frequency sounds that are inaudible to the human ear. This innovation could significantly enhance the Alaska Department of Transportation’s ability to track and mitigate avalanches in the rugged terrain near Thane Road.
By installing infrasound detection systems at the bases of different avalanche paths along Thane Road, experts hope to improve avalanche monitoring and warning systems in the area. These systems work by measuring the subtle changes in atmospheric pressure caused by various sounds, allowing them to differentiate between noises like helicopters, cruise ships, and even the hum of power lines. This intricate technology enables the identification of avalanche start zones when infrasound signals are traced up the slope.
Pat Dryer, the avalanche program specialist for the Alaska Department of Transportation, emphasizes the significance of utilizing infrasound technology in avalanche monitoring. Unlike visible avalanches that may not reach the road due to high elevation or adverse weather conditions, infrasound offers a reliable method of detecting these natural hazards. The data collected from infrasound detection could also enhance avalanche forecasting and improve mitigation strategies in the future.
While the primary focus is on avalanche monitoring, the potential applications of infrasound detection extend beyond just avalanches. In the future, this technology could be utilized to monitor hazards such as rockfalls and landslides, further enhancing safety measures in mountainous regions. Snowbound Solutions and its partners are also exploring the possibility of using machine learning algorithms to classify different types of avalanches based on distinct soundwaves, paving the way for more accurate and efficient avalanche detection systems.
As the first infrasound detection system in Alaska, the initiative on Thane Road represents a significant milestone in improving safety and awareness of avalanches in the region. With advancements in technology and collaboration between research institutions and government agencies, the hope is to create a more comprehensive and effective avalanche monitoring network that can ultimately save lives and prevent property damage in Alaska’s mountainous terrain.