iStockphoto / Djcurtis66
Most people would agree that when controlled and under the right circumstances, huge explosions are undeniably awesome. They are a testament to the power of civilization and our strength to bend the earth at our will.
When used in Colorado to trigger potential avalanches and divert deadly situations before they occur, controlled explosions can save lives. And one of those took place this week as a local heli-skiing company’s helicopter was used to drop a bomb onto Ajax Peak in Telluride, Colorado to trigger an avalanche.
Nearly the entire town of Telluride met on Main Street to watch the controlled avalanche explosion, including news crews who were there filming, and the explosion and consequent avalanche did not disappoint. Two videos have surfaced, one on social media showing the scene on Main Street and another from FOX 31 Denver:
And:
Dropping a bomb from a helicopter is just one means of avalanche control that is employed with modern technology. With the Gazex System, a mixture of explosive gas can be ignited above the snowpack causing a gas explosion that triggers an avalanche.
Some mountains have permanently installed devices to trigger avalanches on demand. And in some instances, a good ol’ fashioned cannon (artillery) can be used to trigger avalanches. All of this done in the name of protecting towns and skiers below from natural avalanches.
On average, 28 people die in the United States every year from avalanches according to FEMA. Anything and everything that can be done to reduce that number is worth the time and effort spent.