- In 2024, natural disasters cost $320bn worldwide, of which approximately $140bn were insured.

- This was the third costliest year in terms of insured losses; in terms of total losses, 2024 ranks fifth on the cost scale since 1980.

- Weather-related disasters were responsible for 93% of total losses and 97% of insured losses.

- Around 11,000 people lost their lives as a result of natural disasters in 2024.

- Losses due to non-major perils such as floods, forest fires and violent storms totalled $136bn, of which around $67bn were insured.

- Tropical cyclones alone contributed $135bn to total losses and $52bn to insured losses.

- Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which hit the US in September and October respectively, were the most destructive disasters of 2024.

- Helene resulted in the largest overall losses from natural catastrophes in 2024, at $56bn, of which $16bn was borne by insurers.

- Milton produced the highest insured losses of the year, totalling $25bn.

- North America once again accounted for the highest share of global losses due to natural disasters, at around 60% of total losses.

This article was originally published in .