The paper operationalises the European Drought Impact Database (EDID), addressing a critical gap in the systematic collection, harmonisation, and use of drought impact data for proactive drought risk management in Europe. By demonstrating how diverse regional datasets can be integrated into an accessible, policy-relevant platform linked to the Copernicus European Drought Observatory, the study provides a foundation for improved impact forecasting, model validation, and evidence-based drought adaptation strategies.

The study draws on a unique dataset collected from a survey of nearly 500 water managers engaged in addressing the 2022 European Drought. It offers valuable insights into how preparedness influences outcomes during large-scale drought events and highlights pathways to strengthen European Drought Risk Management. The manuscript is accompanied by a companion paper, "The 2022 Drought Needs to Be a Turning Point for European Drought Risk Management" (egusphere-2024-2069), which focuses on the drought’s impacts and response. Together, the two studies underscore the urgent need for coordinated action and conclude with policy recommendations for establishing a European Union Drought Directive