How Fast Is Avalanche?

Avalanches reach 160 km/h — and 90% of victims trigger the slide themselves through their own movement on the snow. The shock wave actually precedes the visible snow, knocking trees down before the avalanche itself arrives.

Avalanche shock waves precede the snow — knocking trees flat seconds before the visible snow arrives.

• Faster than a cheetah sprinting
• 90% of victims trigger their own slide