Search
 

Building codes need a revolution to protect against extreme weather

The U.S. experienced at least 24 confirmed weather disaster events through October with losses exceeding $1 billion each.

By Mark Berven | November 11, 2024 at 02:14 PM
Pictured here is the aftermath of a tornado that struck Fultondale, Ala. (Credit: Phillip/Adobe Stock)

As severe weather events become more frequent and destructive, the challenge of protecting our communities has never been greater.From devastating hurricanes to unprecedented wildfires, the stakes are higher than ever. With over 30 years in the insurance industry, I’ve witnessed the profound impact these disasters have on our neighborhoods and the immense struggle of rebuilding in their wake.Extreme weather events like heat waves, large storms, landslides and more are becoming more frequent and intense: The U.S. has already experienced at least 24 confirmed weather disaster events through October with losses exceeding $1 billion each. Over the last five years the U.S. has averaged 20.4 billion-dollar disasters per year; a significant jump considering the combined average of 15.7 billion-dollar disasters per year from the 1980s to 2000s.The recent blockbuster film Twisters highlights the devastating impact of tornadoes. In the film, a storm chaser remarks that their tornado-mapping technology can ‘change the world.’That’s not Hollywood magic. In many ways it is quickly becoming reality. This type of sophisticated technology to better predict storms is well in development. Researchers from Google and Nvidia have also developed weather prediction models that combine AI and machine learning with conventional techniques, potentially helping scientists take global weather projections and more accurately apply them at local scales. These developments could usher in a new era of exact weather forecasting that could save thousands of lives and millions of dollars.

Want to continue reading?
Become a Free
PropertyCasualty360 Digital Reader.

INCLUDED IN A DIGITAL MEMBERSHIP:

  • All PropertyCasualty360.com news coverage, best practices, and in-depth analysis.
  • Educational webcasts, resources from industry leaders, and informative newsletters.
  • Other award-winning websites including BenefitsPRO.com and ThinkAdvisor.com.

Already have an account?

NOT FOR REPRINT

© 2024 ALM Global, LLC, All Rights Reserved. Request academic re-use from www.copyright.com. All other uses, submit a request to [email protected]. For more information visit Asset & Logo Licensing.

PropertyCasualty360

Join PropertyCasualty360

Don’t miss crucial news and insights you need to make informed decisions for your P&C insurance business. Join PropertyCasualty360.com now!

  • Unlimited access to PropertyCasualty360.com - your roadmap to thriving in a disrupted environment
  • Access to other award-winning ALM websites including BenefitsPRO.com, ThinkAdvisor.com and Law.com
  • Exclusive discounts on PropertyCasualty360, National Underwriter, Claims and ALM events

Already have an account? Sign In Now
Join PropertyCasualty360

Copyright © 2024 ALM Global, LLC. All Rights Reserved.