Tree Wells and Snow Bridges
Tree wells are a potential hazard in snowy, forested areas, especially for those engaging in snow sports like snowboarding and skiing. A tree well is a void or depression that forms around the base of a tree, typically under its branches. These wells are created as snow accumulates around the trunk but doesn't accumulate as much directly beneath the branches, leaving a space or well.
The danger associated with tree wells when snowboarding or skiing arises from the fact that these voids can be hidden by the snow, making them difficult to detect. Here are some of the dangers:
Deep Snow Accumulation: tree wells can have deep accumulations of loose snow. If a snowboarder or skier accidentally falls into a tree well, the loose snow can quickly surround them, making it difficult to move or escape.
Entrapment: falling into a tree well can lead to entrapment, where the loose snow prevents a person from easily getting out. The more one struggles, the deeper they may sink into the well.
Suffocation: the loose, deep snow around tree wells can pose a suffocation risk. If a person is unable to free themselves quickly or if help doesn't arrive promptly, there's a risk of suffocation due to the heavy, compacted snow.
Visibility Issues: in snowy and forested conditions, visibility can be reduced, making it challenging to identify potential tree wells. Snowboarders may unknowingly venture too close to trees, increasing the risk of falling into a tree well.
To minimize the dangers associated with tree wells while snowboarding, consider the following precautions:
Stay with a Partner: always ride with a buddy and keep each other in sight. In case one person falls into a tree well, the other can provide assistance or seek help.
Be Cautious Near Trees: approach trees with caution, especially in areas with deep snow. Maintain a safe distance to reduce the risk of accidentally falling into a tree well.
Educate Yourself: learn about the dangers of tree wells and how to respond if you or someone else falls into one. Knowing what to do in such a situation can be crucial for a quick and effective response.
Wear Safety Gear: use safety equipment, including helmets and avalanche gear, which may include a probe, shovel, and beacon, depending on the conditions and terrain.
Always be aware of your surroundings, stay informed about snow conditions, and take appropriate precautions to minimize the risks associated with tree wells while snowboarding.
Escaping from a Snowy Tree Well
It’s challenging, but there are strategies you can employ to increase your chances of self-rescue or signal for help. If you find yourself trapped in a tree well while snowboarding or skiing, consider the following steps:
Stay Calm: it's crucial to remain calm and conserve energy. Panic can make the situation more dangerous.
Create Space: attempt to create an air pocket around your face by moving your body and arms. This can help prevent suffocation.
Use Your Hands: if possible, use your hands to clear snow away from your face, creating an airspace.
Try to Roll or Wiggle: move your body in a rolling or wiggling motion to create a larger void around you. This can make it easier to breathe and improve your chances of getting free.
Attempt to Stand Up: if the tree well is not too deep, try to stand up and exit. Use your snowboard or skis for support if you can.
Signal for Help: make noise by shouting, whistling, or using any signaling device you may have. Alert your skiing or snowboarding partners or nearby individuals to your situation.
Use Your Equipment: if you have a snowboard, skis, or poles, use them as tools to help dig yourself out or create additional space around you.
Stay Connected: if you’re with a group, stay connected with your companions to ensure their awareness of your situation. This way, they can provide assistance or call for help if needed.
Activate Emergency Beacon: if you have an avalanche beacon or personal locator beacon (PLB), activate it to send a distress signal. These devices can help rescuers locate you more quickly.
Wait for Help: if self-rescue is not possible, stay calm and wait for assistance. Your companions or other nearby individuals may be able to provide help or contact professional rescue services.
Prevention is key when it comes to tree wells. Always be cautious near trees, ski or snowboard with a partner, and educate yourself about the risks associated with tree wells. If you're in an area where tree wells are common, consider taking an avalanche safety course to learn more about the dangers and how to respond in emergency situations.
Snow Bridges
When snow accumulates in an arch or tunnel-like structure over a stream, it is often referred to as a "snow bridge" or "snow tunnel." This phenomenon occurs when snowfall accumulates, usually quickly, and forms a protective layer over a flowing stream, creating a structure resembling an arch or tunnel.
Snow bridges are particularly common in mountainous or alpine regions where streams or rivers are present, and heavy snowfall can occur. While they can be visually striking, it's important to approach such formations with caution. Snow bridges are not always stable, and there is a risk of collapse, especially as temperatures fluctuate or as the snow undergoes changes in its structure due to factors like melting and refreezing.
Travelers, including snowshoers, snowboarders, skiers, or snowmobilers, should be aware of the potential dangers associated with snow bridges and assess their stability before crossing them. It's advisable to exercise caution and avoid crossing if there are any uncertainties about the structural integrity of the snow bridge.
Stay informed about local weather conditions and be aware of the potential for natural changes in the environment.
