Severe Convective Storms Drive Rising Costs and Risks in the U.S.
The United States has recorded 331 tornadoes through mid-March 2026, with activity concentrated in the South and extending beyond the traditional Tornado Alley boundaries, according to Victor Gensini, a meteorology professor at Northern Illinois University (NIU) [Actuary.org]. Severe convective storms (SCS), which include tornadoes, hailstorms, and straight-line winds, are increasingly recognized as major drivers of insured losses globally. Reports from Allianz and Aon highlight that SCS events accounted for nearly half of all insured natural catastrophe losses in 2025, totaling over $60 billion [Actuary.org]. These storms are challenging to predict and model due to their localized nature and irregular patterns, but advancements in climate modeling are helping insurers better understand and manage risks. The shifting geography of SCS footprints, coupled with rising construction costs and growing exposure in storm-prone areas, underscores the need for updated actuarial practices and regulatory frameworks to... 
