There has not been a major natural-hazard related disaster in modern times that wasn't preceded by warnings from scientists about the potential consequences of the intersection of populations, infrastructure, and extreme natural events. We have taken our understanding of the frequency of these events and the processes associated with them to the table as earthquake-prone cities have contemplated zoning regulations and building standards, floodplain communities and government agencies have sought to improve flood insurance programs, and settlement has moved into wildland fire danger zones. We have celebrated when we were heeded, but more often we have been frustrated when the impacts of a natural hazard were as we predicted and the opportunity for scientific understanding to have reduced consequences of the event was missed by decision-makers.