Severe Convective Storms Surpass Hurricanes as Top Weather Risk for Homeowners
A recent study by climate risk modeling firm First Street reveals that severe convective storms (SCS) have become the costliest insured natural disasters globally, surpassing hurricanes and other cyclones in 2025. These storms, which include tornadoes, hail, and severe winds, accounted for one-third of global natural disaster economic losses in 2025, totaling $82 billion. Of this, $68 billion in losses were concentrated in the U.S., where the high density of insured residential, commercial, and industrial properties amplifies the financial impact. Hail is identified as the primary driver of insurance payouts, followed by severe winds. The study highlights that SCS are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change, posing significant challenges for homeowners and insurance companies alike. The Midwest and northern Texas are particularly affected, with Illinois and Ohio identified as high-risk areas due to their urban density and valuable real estate. 
