Avalanche Speed: How Fast Can Avalanches Travel And Safety Facts You Need To Know [Updated On 2024]

Avalanches can travel at speeds exceeding 320 kilometers per hour (200 miles per hour). They can consist of snow masses weighing up to a million tons. This occurs when layers of snow in the snowpack slide against each other, causing a rapid descent. As they move, they collect more snow, which increases their speed and weight.

Understanding avalanche safety is crucial for anyone in mountainous regions. Always check avalanche forecasts before venturing into snow-covered areas. Familiarize yourself with the signs of an avalanche, such as recent heavy snowfall, warming temperatures, or audible rumbling sounds. Carry essential safety gear, including an avalanche beacon, probe, and shovel. These tools can significantly increase your chances of survival if caught in an avalanche.

Respecting the mountain environment is vital. Be aware of your surroundings and choose less risky pathways. Always travel with a buddy and inform someone about your plans.

In the next section, we will explore the types of avalanches and their characteristics. This knowledge can enhance your understanding of how they form and the best precautions to take in different scenarios.

Table of Contents

How Fast Can Avalanches Travel?

Avalanches can travel at speeds ranging from 30 to 100 miles per hour. The speed depends on several factors, including the terrain, the type of snow, and the size of the avalanche. In some extreme cases, avalanches can reach speeds of up to 200 miles per hour. These fast-moving snow masses pose significant dangers to people and structures in their path. Understanding the speed of avalanches is crucial for safety measures in avalanche-prone areas.

What Are the Maximum Speeds Recorded for Different Types of Avalanches?

Avalanches can reach maximum speeds between 80 to 120 miles per hour, depending on various factors such as the type of avalanche and the slope of the terrain.

Types of Avalanches and Their Maximum Speeds:
– Loose Snow Avalanches: 20 to 50 mph
– Slab Avalanches: 80 to 120 mph
– Wet Snow Avalanches: 30 to 60 mph
– Powder Snow Avalanches: 60 to 100 mph

Understanding the maximum speeds of different types of avalanches can help in assessing the risks associated with them.

Loose Snow Avalanches:
Loose snow avalanches consist of individual snowflakes that gain momentum as they descend a slope. These avalanches usually occur on steeper terrain and can reach speeds of 20 to 50 mph. According to the U.S. Forest Service, loose snow avalanches are less dangerous than slab avalanches due to their lower speeds and smaller size. However, they can still pose risks to skiers and snowboarders who may be overpowered by their sudden movement.
Slab Avalanches:
Slab avalanches are the most dangerous type of avalanche, characterized by a cohesive layer of snow that breaks away and descends. They can reach speeds of up to 120 mph. The Canadian Avalanche Association states that slab avalanches account for approximately 90% of avalanche-related fatalities. Their rapid descent and massive size make them particularly lethal. The energy released during a slab avalanche can be equivalent to that of a powerful explosion, which can bury or sweep away anything in their path.
Wet Snow Avalanches:
Wet snow avalanches occur when snow absorbs water, losing stability and becoming heavy. These avalanches can achieve speeds of 30 to 60 mph. Studies show that wet snow can become increasingly unstable during warmer temperatures, leading to sudden releases of snow. The U.S. Geological Survey highlights the risks posed by these avalanches during spring when heavy rainfall causes existing snowpacks to destabilize.
Powder Snow Avalanches:
Powder snow avalanches are formed from very fine snow particles, which can travel at speeds between 60 and 100 mph. The lightweight nature of powder snow allows these avalanches to spread widely. A report by the Avalanche Research Institute suggests that these types of avalanches can create hazardous conditions for those in their vicinity, as they can move rapidly and cover large areas with snow clouds, reducing visibility drastically.

Understanding these different types of avalanches and their respective speeds is vital for improving safety measures and preparedness in avalanche-prone regions.

How Do Avalanche Speeds Compare to Other Natural Disasters?

Avalanche speeds can reach up to 80 miles per hour, making them faster than many other natural disasters like floods and landslides, but slower than tornadoes and hurricanes.

Avalanche speed is an important factor when comparing it to other natural disasters. The following points highlight this comparison in detail:

Avalanche Speed: Avalanches can travel at speeds between 30 and 80 miles per hour (48 to 130 kilometers per hour). According to the American Avalanche Association, the average speed of an avalanche can be around 60 miles per hour (97 kilometers per hour) in certain conditions.
Flood Speed: Flood water flows at varying speeds. Fast-moving floodwaters can reach speeds of 6 to 10 miles per hour (10 to 16 kilometers per hour), and flash floods can surge as quickly as 30 miles per hour (48 kilometers per hour). The National Weather Service emphasizes that even low-speed currents can be deadly.
Landslide Speed: Landslides generally vary widely in speed based on their type. Some landslides can move between 10 to 40 miles per hour (16 to 64 kilometers per hour) in steep terrain, as detailed by the United States Geological Survey.
Tornado Speed: Tornadoes are among the fastest natural disasters. The strongest tornadoes can produce winds over 200 miles per hour (322 kilometers per hour). The Enhanced Fujita Scale categorizes tornadoes based on the estimated wind speeds causing destruction.
Hurricane Speed: Hurricanes can have sustained winds that exceed 157 miles per hour (252 kilometers per hour). The National Hurricane Center states that wind speed drives storm surge, which can cause severe flooding.

In summary, while avalanches can reach high speeds and present significant danger, tornadoes and hurricanes are generally faster and can have a wider range of destructive forces. Understanding these speeds is essential for assessing risk and ensuring safety in vulnerable areas.

What Factors Influence How Fast Avalanches Can Travel?

The speed of avalanches can be influenced by several environmental and snowpack factors.

Snowpack stability
Slope angle
Weather conditions
Type of snow
Human activity

Understanding these factors is essential for assessing avalanche risk. Let’s explore each of these influences in detail.

Snowpack Stability: Snowpack stability describes how well the layers of snow bind together. An unstable snowpack can lead to avalanches. Factors such as the recent snowfall, temperature changes, and the presence of ice layers weaken stability. According to the American Avalanche Association, about 90% of avalanche accidents occur on slopes with instability in the snowpack, demonstrating the significant impact of this factor.
Slope Angle: Slope angle refers to the steepness of a slope where snow accumulates. Steeper slopes generally have a higher potential for avalanches. Research indicates that slopes between 30 and 45 degrees have the greatest avalanche risk, as they provide the perfect gradient for snow to slide. Avalanche scientists emphasize that even slight changes in slope can drastically alter the speed of an avalanche.
Weather Conditions: Weather conditions include factors like temperature, precipitation, and wind. Sudden changes in weather can create unstable conditions for snow. A study by the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology suggests that rapid warming can lead to wet snow avalanches, which can travel at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour. This highlights how dynamic weather patterns can affect avalanche behavior.
Type of Snow: The type of snow significantly influences avalanche dynamics. Powder snow is light and can create a soft avalanche that travels slower, while heavy, wet snow can lead to fast and destructive avalanches. The National Avalanche Center notes that the interaction between snow types can also impact avalanche speed, as denser snow can behave differently when moving downhill.
Human Activity: Human activity can trigger avalanches and influence their speed. Skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling can add weight to the snowpack and may cause it to fail. Studies show that human-triggered avalanches are more common in certain regions, particularly during weekend travel times. The Utah Avalanche Center reports that approximately 50% of avalanches are triggered by humans, making this a significant factor to consider.

Understanding these factors is critical for anyone engaged in winter sports or living in mountainous regions. Proper education and awareness can help mitigate risks associated with avalanches.

How Does Snow Type Impact Avalanche Velocity?

Snow type impacts avalanche velocity by influencing factors such as density, stability, and friction. Different types of snow, like fresh powder and wet snow, possess distinct properties.

Fresh powder snow is light and has a low density. This type allows for less friction and can lead to faster-moving avalanches. In contrast, wet snow contains more moisture. The moisture increases the snow’s density and enhances its grip on underlying layers. Consequently, wet snow can slow down the avalanche velocity.

The stability of snow layers also affects avalanche speed. Layered snow with a weak base can result in quicker avalanches. This occurs when a heavier layer collapses onto a lighter layer. The collapse causes a rapid release of snow, increasing the velocity. In contrast, stable layers, where snow adheres well, can reduce the chances of an avalanche occurring and thus lower potential speed.

Additionally, the temperature plays a role. Warmer temperatures can cause snow to melt slightly, creating a crust. This crust may lead to quicker failures for subsequent layers, speeding up the avalanche process.

In summary, snow type influences avalanche velocity through its density, stability, and interaction with temperature. Fresh powder can enhance speed, while wet snow and layers with greater stability may slow down or prevent avalanches. Understanding these relationships is crucial for predicting avalanche behavior and increasing safety in snowy environments.

What Role Does Slope Angle Have on Avalanche Speed?

The slope angle significantly influences avalanche speed. Generally, steeper slopes lead to faster moving avalanches due to gravitational forces that accelerate the snowpack’s descent.

Steeper slopes increase avalanche speed.
Angle of repose affects stability.
Layer composition impacts sliding dynamics.
Weather conditions modify snow properties.
Human activity can trigger avalanches.
Avalanche type matters for speed variations.

The connection between these factors helps paint a clearer picture of the dynamics involved in avalanches and their speeds.

Steeper Slopes Increase Avalanche Speed:
Avalanche speed is directly related to the slope angle. When the slope exceeds about 30 degrees, avalanches become more likely due to gravitational pull. Research by McClung and Schaerer (2006) indicates that an increase in slope angle leads to more rapid sliding of snow. In some cases, avalanches can reach speeds of 80 mph (130 km/h) on steep slopes.
Angle of Repose Affects Stability:
The angle of repose is the maximum slope angle at which snow remains stable. For snow, this angle is often between 30 and 45 degrees, depending on the type of snow and its moisture content. When the angle exceeds this threshold, gravity overcomes friction, leading to an avalanche. A study by Sigrist (2009) demonstrated that even small changes in this angle can trigger avalanches, affecting speed.
Layer Composition Impacts Sliding Dynamics:
The composition of snow layers plays a critical role in avalanche mechanics. Different types of snow, such as dry powder or wet snow, have varying lubricating properties. A study by Föhn (2000) showed that wet, heavy snow tends to slide more readily compared to dry snow. This variability affects the speed and dynamics of the avalanche as it travels down the slope.
Weather Conditions Modify Snow Properties:
Weather conditions such as temperature and humidity influence the characteristics of the snowpack. Warmer temperatures can lead to melting and refreezing, making the snow less stable. According to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (2021), rain on snow events can significantly increase the likelihood of avalanches, changing their speed upon descent as the snow becomes heavy and saturated.
Human Activity Can Trigger Avalanches:
Human activities, such as skiing or snowmobiling, can destabilize slopes. Triggers from these activities can initiate an avalanche at lower slope angles than natural triggers would. As noted by the American Avalanche Association, even slight disturbances can result in rapid snow movement, increasing the avalanche’s speed in some instances.
Avalanche Type Matters for Speed Variations:
Different types of avalanches exhibit various speeds. For example, slab avalanches, which occur when a cohesive layer of snow breaks away, can travel faster than loose snow avalanches, which often move down the slope in a powdery form. According to the Avalanche Research Center, slab avalanches can reach speeds of over 60 mph (97 km/h), making them some of the fastest types of avalanches encountered in mountainous regions.

Understanding the role of slope angle and related factors is essential for avalanche safety and prediction. Knowledge of these principles can help individuals make informed decisions in avalanche-prone areas.

What Are the Different Types of Avalanches and Their Typical Speeds?

The different types of avalanches include loose snow avalanches, slab avalanches, and wet snow avalanches. Their typical speeds can range from 20 to over 100 miles per hour, depending on various factors.

Loose Snow Avalanches
Slab Avalanches
Wet Snow Avalanches

Exploring these types of avalanches provides valuable insights into their characteristics and behaviors. Each type has distinct properties and varying speeds influenced by snow conditions, slope steepness, and weather.

Loose Snow Avalanches:
Loose snow avalanches occur when individual snowflakes melt and begin to slide down a slope. This type of avalanche typically starts at the surface and gathers more snow as it descends. The speed of loose snow avalanches varies, but they can reach up to 20 miles per hour. According to the National Avalanche Center, these avalanches are more common in lighter, fluffy snow conditions, and they often happen on steeper terrain. For instance, in the backcountry areas of Colorado, loose snow avalanches are prevalent in early winter months.
Slab Avalanches:
Slab avalanches are more dangerous and occur when a cohesive layer of snow collapses. This type of avalanche is triggered when the weight of new snow or external factors, such as wind or human activity, stresses a weak layer underneath. Slab avalanches can reach speeds up to 80 miles per hour or more. Research by the Colorado Avalanche Information Center shows that slab avalanches account for a significant number of avalanche-related fatalities. The 1996 Avalanche at Loveland Pass in Colorado highlighted their severity when a large slab release resulted in multiple casualties.
Wet Snow Avalanches:
Wet snow avalanches happen when the snowpack becomes saturated with water. This typically occurs during warmer temperatures or rain. The increase in water weight makes the snow more prone to sliding. These avalanches generally travel at speeds averaging between 10 to 30 miles per hour. A notable example includes the 2014 avalanche in Washington State that was triggered by unseasonably warm weather, leading to significant retreat of the snowpack. According to a 2021 study published in the Journal of Glaciology, as temperatures rise due to climate change, the frequency of wet snow avalanches is likely to increase.

In summary, recognizing the different types of avalanches and their typical speeds helps in understanding avalanche risks in various conditions. Safety precautions should always be taken when in avalanche-prone areas.

How Fast Do Loose Snow Avalanches Move Compared to Slab Avalanches?

Loose snow avalanches generally move at speeds ranging from 20 to 50 miles per hour (32 to 80 kilometers per hour). In contrast, slab avalanches can travel much faster, reaching speeds of up to 80 miles per hour (129 kilometers per hour) or more on steep terrain. The primary difference lies in their structure. Loose snow avalanches involve individual snowflakes and tend to progress in a more dispersed manner. Slab avalanches consist of cohesive blocks of snow that can break away from slopes, allowing them to accelerate quickly. This distinction in movement and speed is crucial for understanding avalanche behavior and associated risks. Understanding these speed differences can help in assessing safety measures in snowy environments.

What Is the Speed of Wet Snow Avalanches and How Does It Differ?

Wet snow avalanches are rapid movements of snow that occur when the water content makes the snow dense and heavy, influencing both their speed and behavior. They typically travel at speeds ranging from 40 to 90 miles per hour (64 to 145 kilometers per hour), influenced by slope, snow type, and weather conditions.

According to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC), an authoritative source on avalanche safety and research, avalanches occur when a layer of snow slides down a slope due to gravitational pull, Often exacerbated by the presence of moisture.

Wet snow avalanches can vary significantly in their characteristics. Heavy moisture content makes the snow more cohesive, which can lead to faster, denser avalanches. Other factors like the steepness of the slope and existing snowpack stability also affect their speed and trajectory.

The National Avalanche Center elaborates that wet snow avalanches typically form during warming periods or heavy rain, where the snow warms, becoming heavy and unstable. This can trigger larger avalanches than dry snow types.

Key factors contributing to wet snow avalanches include thawing temperatures, prolonged rain, and the snowpack’s structure. For example, a sudden spike in temperature during spring can destabilize the snowpack considerably.

Research from the Snow and Ice Research Group indicates that wet snow avalanches can reach speeds of over 60 miles per hour under optimal conditions. This highlights the urgency for preparedness and monitoring in avalanche-prone areas.

These avalanches pose significant dangers, including loss of life, destruction of property, and impacts on infrastructure. Communities situated in mountainous regions must remain vigilant during peak risk periods.

Wet snow avalanches can affect human health through injuries and fatalities, while their economic implications involve property damage and rescue operations. Environmentally, these events disrupt local ecosystems and wildlife habitats.

Specific examples of these impacts include the 2010 avalanche in Italy, which caused multiple fatalities and significant destruction, raising awareness of avalanche risks in wet conditions.

To mitigate the hazards, experts like those from the Avalanche Foundation recommend snow safety education, proper forecasting, and avalanche control measures. These approaches help ensure a proactive stance during avalanche season.

Strategies include using explosives to manage snowpack stability and employing snow retention systems to reduce the risk of avalanches forming in the first place. These technologies can significantly improve safety in avalanche-prone areas.

What Dangers Are Associated with Fast-Moving Avalanches?

Fast-moving avalanches pose significant dangers, including the risk of injuries, fatalities, property damage, and environmental disruption.

Injuries to individuals.
Fatalities from being buried or struck.
Property destruction.
Displacement of wildlife habitats.
Financial losses for communities.
Rescue challenges for emergency services.
Unpredictable movement and speed.
Psychological effects on survivors.

Understanding these dangers is essential for effective prevention and preparedness strategies.

Injuries to Individuals: Injuries from fast-moving avalanches often occur due to trauma from being struck by debris or the violent force of the snow itself. According to a study by the Avalanche Institute (2021), around 30% of avalanche victims sustain serious injuries, including broken bones and internal injuries.
Fatalities from Being Buried or Struck: Fatalities are a significant risk associated with avalanches. The National Avalanche Center reports that about 25% of avalanche victims do not survive. Many fatalities occur due to suffocation after being buried under rapidly falling snow, while others result from blunt force trauma.
Property Destruction: Fast-moving avalanches can obliterate structures in their path. They have the capacity to destroy homes and infrastructures, leading to costly repairs and reconstruction. According to the U.S. Forest Service, avalanches can cause millions of dollars in damage to property in mountainous areas.
Displacement of Wildlife Habitats: Avalanches can alter landscapes and displace wildlife from their natural habitats. This disruption may lead to reduced food availability and increased competition among species. Research from the Wildlife Conservation Society (2020) indicates that many species struggle to adapt quickly to changes caused by snowslides.
Financial Losses for Communities: Local economies can suffer from the impact of avalanches. The damage to property, infrastructure, and tourism can lead to significant financial setbacks for communities in avalanche-prone regions. A report by the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (2022) highlights that affected communities may incur costs exceeding millions of dollars.
Rescue Challenges for Emergency Services: Fast-moving avalanches pose logistical challenges for rescue operations. Avalanche rescues often require specialized training and equipment. Communities with limited resources may struggle to respond quickly, putting lives at risk. A 2019 study by the International Snow Science Workshop revealed that response times can increase significantly in cases of rapid snow events.
Unpredictable Movement and Speed: The unpredictability of avalanches presents a constant danger. They can accelerate quickly, making it difficult to gauge when and where they may strike. According to research by the Snow and Ice Research Institute, avalanches can travel up to 80 miles per hour under certain conditions.
Psychological Effects on Survivors: Individuals who survive an avalanche may experience long-term psychological effects. Trauma related to near-death experiences can lead to anxiety, depression, and PTSD. A study by the Journal of Traumatic Stress (2020) discusses the mental health repercussions faced by avalanche survivors, indicating that interventions are often needed to address these issues.

Each of these dangers emphasizes the importance of education, preparedness, and ongoing research into avalanche safety and management practices.

How Does Avalanche Speed Affect Survival Rates and Rescue Techniques?

Avalanche speed significantly affects survival rates and rescue techniques. Faster avalanches increase the likelihood of severe injuries or fatalities. Victims caught in quick-moving snow may become buried, limiting their air supply and chances of survival.

Survival rates depend on the victim’s location within the avalanche. Those who are closer to the surface have a higher chance of survival because they can access air and may receive quicker rescue. Conversely, individuals buried deeper face a greater risk of suffocation due to a limited air pocket.

Rescue techniques must adapt to avalanche speed and conditions. In fast-moving avalanches, rescuers prioritize locating the most recently buried individuals, as their chances of survival are highest within the first 15 minutes after burial. Searchers often use avalanche transceivers, which help locate buried victims.

When an avalanche strikes, time is critical. Quick action and effective communication among rescue teams can save lives. Furthermore, knowledge of avalanche behavior is essential. This knowledge helps rescuers understand the terrain and improve their strategies.

In summary, faster avalanches reduce survival rates. They necessitate more urgent and specialized rescue techniques. Understanding these aspects can enhance preparedness and response to avalanche incidents.

What Safety Measures Should Be Taken to Handle Fast Avalanches?

To handle fast avalanches safely, individuals should prioritize preparation, awareness, and emergency response.

Awareness of Avalanche Risks
Proper Training
Equipment Use
Emergency Response Plans
Avoiding High-Risk Areas

Understanding and implementing these safety measures can significantly reduce the dangers of avalanches and enhance survival chances.

Awareness of Avalanche Risks:
Being aware of avalanche risks is crucial in mountainous areas. Individuals should understand avalanche forecasts and read local conditions. The Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) provides daily updates on conditions and risks. Studies indicate that 90% of avalanche incidents occur with a human factor involved, emphasizing the need for awareness.
Proper Training:
Proper training is essential for anyone venturing into avalanche-prone areas. Effective training teaches skills such as snowpack analysis and decision-making under risk. Organizations like the American Avalanche Association offer courses that prepare individuals for real-life scenarios. A trained person is more likely to recognize warning signs and avoid dangers.
Equipment Use:
Using the right equipment can save lives during avalanche situations. Essential gear includes avalanche transceivers for locating individuals, shovels for digging, and probes for pinpointing buried victims. According to a study by Kauffman et al. (2015), proper equipment increased survival rates by 50%. Having the right tools mitigates risks significantly.
Emergency Response Plans:
Establishing an emergency response plan is key for groups traveling in the backcountry. This plan should outline specific steps to take in case of an avalanche, such as communication protocols and rendezvous points. Research shows that pre-planned actions lead to quicker and more effective responses in emergencies.
Avoiding High-Risk Areas:
Avoiding known high-risk areas reduces the likelihood of encountering avalanches. High-risk zones typically include steep slopes, recent avalanche activity, and areas with unstable snowpack. The National Park Service recommends checking previous avalanche events to guide route choices. Often, the best safety measure is proactive avoidance.

By understanding these numerous perspectives on handling fast avalanches, individuals can substantially increase their safety and make informed decisions in the wilderness.

What Precautions Can You Take to Prepare for the Risk of Fast-Moving Avalanches?

To prepare for the risk of fast-moving avalanches, you can take several precautions. These measures focus on planning, equipment, awareness, and training.

Conduct thorough research on the area.
Check avalanche forecasts and warnings.
Carry essential avalanche safety equipment.
Use proper travel techniques in avalanche terrain.
Take an avalanche safety course.
Travel with experienced companions.
Inform someone of your travel plans.

These precautions cover various aspects of avalanche risk preparation. Each step plays a crucial role in minimizing danger and ensuring safety.

Conduct Thorough Research on the Area: Conducting thorough research on the area is essential before venturing into avalanche-prone regions. This involves understanding the terrain, snowpack conditions, and historical avalanche activity. According to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC, 2020), learning about previous events helps identify risk factors. Maps and online resources can provide useful insights.
Check Avalanche Forecasts and Warnings: Checking avalanche forecasts and warnings regularly is vital. Authorities like the National Avalanche Center issue forecasts that indicate avalanche danger levels. Understanding these levels aids in making informed decisions. For instance, a “High” danger level indicates that nearly all slopes are likely to slide, and activities should be avoided (National Avalanche Center, 2021).
Carry Essential Avalanche Safety Equipment: Carrying essential avalanche safety equipment is crucial for survival. This gear should include a beacon, shovel, and probe. According to a study by the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE, 2018), having a beacon can significantly increase the chances of being rescued. These tools help locate individuals buried under snow.
Use Proper Travel Techniques in Avalanche Terrain: Using proper travel techniques in avalanche terrain minimizes risk. Group travel should follow safe travel techniques, such as spacing out and traveling one at a time when crossing potential slide paths. The Avalanche Association emphasizes that proper techniques can reduce the probability of triggering an avalanche (Avalanche Association, 2019).
Take an Avalanche Safety Course: Taking an avalanche safety course provides valuable knowledge. These courses teach individuals how to recognize avalanche risks, use equipment, and perform rescues. According to a report by the International Ski Federation, participants in safety courses demonstrate a better understanding of avalanche conditions and decision-making in the field (ISF, 2021).
Travel with Experienced Companions: Traveling with experienced companions is beneficial for safety. Companions familiar with avalanche risks can help navigate challenging conditions. The American Avalanche Institute recommends discussing strategies and risk assessment among team members to ensure a collective understanding of safety (AAI, 2022).
Inform Someone of Your Travel Plans: Informing someone of your travel plans ensures a safety net. This practice enables others to alert authorities if you do not return as expected. Creating a clear plan, including your route and expected return time, provides an additional layer of safety.

By implementing these precautions, individuals can enhance their preparedness for the risks associated with fast-moving avalanches.

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