Accuracy of Manual Snow Sampling, Depending on the Sampler’s Cross-Section—A Comparative Study

Snow sampling, either by inserting a tube through the entire snowpack or taking samples from vertical profile, is widely applied to measure snow depth, density, and water equivalent (SWE). A comparative study of snow-sampling methods was carried out on 24 March 2022 in Sodankylä, Finland. Six groups five countries (Estonia, Finland, Greenland, Iceland, Sweden) participated, using 12 different samplers, including 9 bulk samplers 3 density cutters. The cross-sectional area SWE varied 11 100 cm2, while length 30 cm cm. profile cutters cm2 200 sampling step 5 10 were taken pits 55–65-centimeter-deep cover flat with sparse pine trees, at maximum distance m each other. Each series consisted 3–10 columns ensure statistical validation. relatively soft, two moderately hard crust layers. recorded sample measurements 218 265 kgm−3. measurement results SWE, however, depending equipment used, ranging 148 180 kgm−2, outliers 77 106 both samplers.