Thank you to retired Avalanche Professional with the Canadian Avalanche Association, Professor Emeritus at the University of Calgary, Mr. Bruce Jamieson, for creating this informative video about a common misunderstanding in avalanche safety and terrain assessment when it comes to convexities.
“Traditionally, convexities were associated with easier triggering of slab avalanches. However, there are two parts to a convex slope: the convexity near the top of the slope and the steeper slope below it. Contrary to traditional teaching, the steeper slope is where riders are more likely to trigger a slab avalanche. The convexity is where the the crown fracture is more likely to occur. But convexities are worthy of our attention when route-finding in avalanche terrain – they are easier to see in poor light and they help us locate steep slopes where triggering is more likely.”
Remember, the convexity conundrum in slab avalanche safety is an important nuance that can be life-saving: while convexities have long been viewed as prime trigger zones due to added tension in the snowpack, the reality is more subtle. If you are serious about avalanche safety and want to learn more from a guy who has over 40 years of experience in the field, we highly recommend you subscribe to Jamieson’s YouTube channel and explore his blog HERE.
About Bruce Jamieson:
Bruce has been working with avalanches for over 40 years, and providing training since 1985. He is a retired Avalanche Professional with the Canadian Avalanche Association, Professor Emeritus at the University of Calgary and a life member (non-practicing) of the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta.
Education and training
Bruce Jamieson has provided specialized avalanche workshops , CPD and webinars for avalanche practitioners and industry including
- University of Calgary, Natural hazards; risks and impact
- Avalanche Canada
- Association of Geohazard Professionals
- Division of Engineers and Geoscientists in the Resource Sector (Engineers and Geoscientists BC
- BC Ministry of Transportation, Snow Avalanche Programs
- Canadian Avalanche Association
- Parks Canada
- Icelandic Search and Rescue
- Portland Mountain Rescue.
- various backcountry & lift-serviced snow-sport operations
