Imagine 3

Did you know natural disasters drained over $400 billion from the global economy last year? Your wallet might be next.

2024 was the hottest year since 1850, with catastrophic consequences. We faced 21 separate billion-dollar disasters worldwide, with insurers covering only $154 billion of the total $417 billion in damages.

Hurricanes Helene and Milton were the costliest events, each causing about $20 billion in insured losses alone. Meanwhile, severe thunderstorms and hail contributed a staggering $64 billion to the insurance bill.

As a disaster management expert, I’ve watched climate patterns shift dramatically in recent years. What’s truly alarming is how wildfire and storm seasons are becoming increasingly unpredictable – like the January fires we saw in Los Angeles, completely outside the traditional season.

Our old preparedness playbooks are becoming obsolete. In my experience, communities that adapt now with flexible emergency plans will save both lives and money when – not if – disasters strike.

Source： Wall Street Journal