Relationship between Shear Strength and Snow Properties at the Base of Snowpack

Abstract

This study investigates how snow properties affect the shear strength at the base of snowpack. Field measurements of the shear strengths showed values ranging from 0.3 to 3.8 kN/m², with an average value of 1.5 kN/m². Despite the variation, it was confirmed that shear strength was positively correlated with dry snow density and snow hardness, and negatively correlated with liquid water content. Additionally, to understand the shear strength of snowpack under rainfall or rapid snowmelt, we measured the shear strength of an area of snowpack sprayed with water.