Galtür: la tormenta perfecta

On February 23, 1999, a catastrophic avalanche struck the village of Galtur, killing 31 people. This event was caused by a combination of weather conditions, including a mild January that created a weak snow crust, and heavy snowfalls influenced by Atlantic and Arctic air masses. The avalanche doubled in volume as it descended, carrying 300,000 tons of snow at 300 km/h. This rare event highlights the powerful impact of atmospheric conditions on natural disasters.

What made the avalanche on February 23, 1999, particularly devastating compared to previous ones?

• It was caused by a volcanic eruption.

• It was the first avalanche in the region.

• It was the worst avalanche in 40 years, destroying buildings and causing fatalities.

• It was triggered by an earthquake.

What weather condition in early January 1999 contributed to the avalanche?

• A mild weather causing a weak snow layer

• Heavy rainfall

• A sudden heatwave

• A strong earthquake

How did the Atlantic Ocean influence the weather in the Alps?

• By causing earthquakes

• By providing moisture that led to snowfall

• By increasing temperatures

• By blocking sunlight

What was the result of the meeting of air masses from the Atlantic and Arctic?

• A heatwave

• A drought

• Heavy snowfall with dry and light snow

• A hurricane

What was the speed of the avalanche when it reached the village?

• 100 km/h

• 200 km/h

• 400 km/h

• 300 km/h