GAPHAZ - Glacier and Permafrost Hazards in Mountains

The IACS/IPA Standing Group on Glacier and Permafrost Hazards in High Mountains aims at:
- Improving the international scientific communication on glacier and permafrost hazards
- Compiling of a state of knowledge related to glacier and permafrost hazards in high mountains
- Working towards a greater transfer of information and improved communication between the scientific and governmental communities
- Signposting sources of advice to international and national agencies, responsible authorities and private companies
- Acting as a focal point for information for international media during relevant crises

The Standing Group addresses the following themes:
- Processes involved in the formation of glacier and permafrost hazards
- Techniques and strategies for mapping, monitoring, modelling
- Methods of hazard, vulnerability and risk assessment
- Methods of hazard mitigation including styles and effectiveness of remedial works
- Raising awareness of protocols for glacial hazard assessment and remediation

The Standing Group covers among others the following glacier and permafrost hazards:
- Outbursts of glacier lakes, causing floods and debris flows
- Avalanche/landslide-induced displacement wave impacts on glacial lake dams
- Ice break-offs and subsequent ice avalanches from steep glaciers
- Stable and unstable (surge-type) glacier length variations
- Destabilisation of frozen or unfrozen debris slopes
- Destabilisation of rock walls, as related to periglacial and glacial activity
- Adverse effects of rock glaciers and other periglacial slope movements
- Thaw settlement and frost heave.
- Earthquake triggering of glacier and permafrost hazards.
- Processes and hazards associated to interactions between volcanic activity and glaciers. and
- Combinations or chain reactions of these processes