Between 1990 and 2007 the European Union witnessed a marked increase in the number and severity of both natural disasters. The loss of human life, the destruction of economic and social infrastructure and the degradation of already fragile ecosystems is expected to worsen as climate change increases the frequency and magnitude of extreme meteorological events, such as heat waves, storms and heavy rains. Research can contribute both to the prevention of and the response to natural disasters by delivering appropriate tools and protocols to decision-makers.