Over the past few decades, the frequency and severity of natural disasters have increased. Growing population, unplanned urbanization, ageing and related demographic trends have contributed to this change. The 3rd UN World Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction, Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2025 (SFDRR), highlights the fundamental role of health in disaster risk management (DRM) and emphasizes the need for scientific evidence in this area. In practice, the majority of attention to DRM has focused on preparedness and response.