Snow Formation and Avalanches : Page 208
Detection of Snow Condition
With respect to the methods of determining that avalanche conditions exist, no amount of discussion can replace experience; but the skier can be cautioned to take advantage of certain classes of available information.
The most complete knowledge of snow conditions at a given point can be obtained by cutting a section through the snow from the surface to the ground and examining the texture of the snow in each layer and the firmness of the bond between layers. This method is usually too laborious to be practical, and normally requires the use of a shovel. An approach to such an examination can be obtained, however, by prodding the snow with a