Book 20, Question 105
What Is a Cornice?
A cornice is a big overhanging lip of snow that wind builds along a mountain ridge. It looks a bit like a frozen ocean wave, curling out into the air. Cornices can break off without warning, so we admire them from far away.
More fun facts
- A cornice is an overhanging ledge of snow on a ridge.
- It is built by wind-blown snow.
- Cornices can collapse under their own weight, often during a thaw.
- A falling cornice can start an avalanche.
- In 2014, Scotland recorded 18 incidents of people falling through cornices.
Questions kids ask
Why are cornices dangerous?
They can collapse under their own weight, often during a thaw, and a falling cornice can start an avalanche.