What is the primary failure method in weak snow anchor setups?

In weak snow anchor setups, compression failure is considered the primary failure method due to the nature of snow as a medium. When an anchor is placed in snow, the compressive forces exerted on the anchor can cause the surrounding snow to collapse or compact under the weight of a load or in response to dynamic forces. This type of failure occurs when the snow can no longer support the load, causing the anchor to slide or pull out.

Snow has unique properties when compared to other materials like soil or rock. It can be weaker than expected, especially in conditions like warm weather or after periods of melting, which lead to reduced cohesion. Therefore, in a weak snow anchor setup, the design integrity relies heavily on the ability of the snow to hold the anchor in place without allowing for too much compression, which can destabilize the anchor and lead to failure.

Other failure methods, while relevant in various rescue scenarios, are less critical in the context of weak snow anchors. For example, tension failure typically involves the pulling force exceeding the strength of the anchor or the material it's placed in. Shear failure refers to the sliding or cutting of materials along a plane, which can occur in anchors set in soils or other substrates. Rotational failure involves the anchor pivoting