Wildfires, storms, floods contribute to record 92% of global insured losses in 2025: Swiss Re Institute
In 2025, secondary perils† – among them wildfires, severe convective storms and floods – accounted for a record 92% of total global natural catastrophe insured losses of USD 107 billion Population growth, rising asset values and elevated reconstruction costs among factors increasing exposure and insured losses over time Swiss Re’s modelling shows that in a peak-loss scenario, insured losses could reach USD 320 billion in 2026, underscoring the continued need for well-designed adaptation and risk mitigation measures Zurich, Switzerland (Mar. 19, 2026) – Secondary perils dominated natural catastrophe headlines in 2025. The LA wildfires, for example, generated record-breaking combined insured losses of around USD 40 billion. Losses from severe convective storms (SCS) remained elevated with USD 51 billion of losses. 2025 was also notable due to the absence of a major US hurricane landfall. With long-term global insurance losses from natural catastrophes continuing to follow the 5–7% annual growth rate, sustained adaptation and risk mitigation are instrumental to maintain long-term insurability and reduce protection gaps. Balz Grollimund, Head Catastrophe Perils, said: “The below-trend natural catastrophe losses seen in 2025 are the result of favourable variability rather than any easing of underlying risk. If losses return to normal long-term levels, they would total USD 148 billion...