Claims News Service, Oct. 28, 8:30 a.m. EDT — Risk Management Solutions announced that it has increased its estimate for U.S. insured losses from Hurricane Wilma to $8-$12 billion from its original estimate of $6-$10 billion. This estimate includes onshore damage resulting from wind and coastal storm surge, business interruption, and increased costs for materials and services needed for repairs.

The increase in estimated insured losses resulting from Hurricane Wilma is the result of further analysis of the wind speeds in the Miami metropolitan area and along the eastern coastline, which Wilma crossed as a large, Category 2 hurricane. RMS reconnaissance teams have reported extensive areas of roof damage indicative of wind speeds in excess of 90-100 mph across the area. High-rise commercial buildings in Miami have also sustained significant damage to windows and cladding, contributing to the insured losses. Widespread power outages continue throughout the metropolitan area, as well as in parts of Naples and surrounding communities, which will likely propagate business interruption claims.

More information is available at www.rms.com.