New study reveals snow density measurement systems accuracy in different conditions.
Snow density was measured using two different systems in various snow conditions. The dielectric system tended to underestimate dry snow density by 9% and overestimate wet snow density by 3% compared to the gravimetric system. The dielectric system had lower accuracy in dry snow but similar accuracy in wet snow. Accuracy and precision improved with harder snow in dry conditions but decreased with softer snow in wet conditions. This information can help field operators choose the best system for accurate snow density measurements.