RACS in Grøtfjorden

Ten RACS protects the road in Grøtfjorden. The towers are loaded with explosives that are dropped down on a rope over the snow cover. The closure time is approximately 30 to 45 minutes during avalanche control and can be scheduled at convenient times.

During winter, regular avalanche control is conducted. When the avalanche risk increases, the road will be closed for about 30 to 35 minutes and controlled avalanches will be triggered. Through frequent detonations, the avalanches will be small, and the need to clear avalanche debris from the road will be minimal.

In addition to the avalanche towers, an avalanche radar, infrared camera and a PTZ (Paan Tilt Zoom) camera has been installed to monitor avalanche activity on the mountainsides. The radar detects avalanche also when it is dark, which is particularly useful when you are in the Artic. This contributes to safer decision-making on whether avalanche control should be initiated.

In this video avalanche control is performed in december 2022.

Learn more on avalanche control by watching this presentation.