Database of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs)-IPL project No. 179

This article summarises activities and preliminary results of the International Programme on Landslides Project no. 179 Database of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). This project is planned for 3years (2013-2015); the main objectives of the first year are (1) to create an online database and (2) to select collaborating partners. A survey of existing and relevant documents, information and organisations has been initiated along with the creation of a website (www.glofs-database.org) and the establishment of international collaboration. The first preliminary results show regional differences in various attributes of GLOF events (e. g. triggers, chronological distribution). These differences should be taken into consideration in regionally focused methods of hazard assessment, mitigation and consequently risk management.