The deadly storm system sweeping across the United States has caused widespread destruction and at least 40 deaths, with insurers preparing for significant claims related to tornado damage, high winds, flooding and property losses.
Deaths have been reported in Kansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Arkansas, Texas, Alabama and Missouri, according to media outlets. Missouri alone saw 12 fatalities, including three in Bakersfield, where an EF-3 tornado with peak winds of 140 mph caused extensive property damage, according to the National Weather Service.
In Kansas, a highway pileup involving more than 70 vehicles resulted in at least eight deaths. Insurers will likely face an increase in auto claims from storm-related crashes, while commercial insurers may see claims for business interruptions and agricultural damage.
Severe weather is expected to continue into Sunday, affecting areas from Florida to the upper Ohio River Valley. More than 60 million people remain at risk, with tornado watches in place for parts of Florida, West Virginia, Virginia, and Pennsylvania.
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey confirmed at least three deaths and damage in 52 of the state’s 67 counties. Insurance providers are assessing the financial impact on policyholders.
"Yesterday's severe weather impacted most of Alabama," Ivey said. "Unfortunately, we have learned of the loss of at least two of our fellow Alabamians -- one life in Plantersville and one in Winterboro."
Power outages have also been widespread, with more than 337,000 reported nationwide as of Sunday afternoon, including nearly 41,000 in Missouri, according to USA TODAY’s outage tracker. Homeowners and businesses with coverage for power-related losses may file claims for food spoilage, lost revenue, and property damage.
The Storm Prediction Center has recorded 75 preliminary tornado reports in seven states since Friday. The National Weather Service is working to confirm the total number, which will help insurers determine loss estimates.
President Donald Trump stated that his administration is monitoring the situation and deploying the National Guard to Arkansas. FEMA may assist uninsured and underinsured homeowners, particularly those affected by flood damage not covered under standard home insurance policies.
With the storm system still active, insurers and policyholders are bracing for continued damage and financial losses in the coming days.
