IBHS Warns of Rising Thunderstorm Losses, Urges Proactive Homeowner Measures
Event summary
- Thunderstorms were the second-costliest insured disasters in the U.S. in 2025, per Munich Re.
- IBHS highlights a 'bullseye effect' with more homes moving into high-risk storm areas.
- Sealing roof decks can reduce water intrusion by up to 95%, according to IBHS research.
- FORTIFIED Roof™ homes were 70% less likely to need insurance claims post-Hurricane Sally.
The big picture
IBHS's guidance comes as severe convective storms increasingly challenge traditional insurance models, with thunderstorms now ranking among the costliest disasters. The shift reflects broader trends of urban expansion into hazard-prone areas and the need for proactive risk mitigation strategies. IBHS positions itself as a key player in promoting science-backed resilience measures amid rising climate-related financial exposures.
What we're watching
- Risk Concentration
- How the growing 'bullseye effect' of home construction in high-risk areas will impact future insurance losses.
- Adoption Pace
- Whether homeowners and businesses will widely adopt IBHS's FORTIFIED standards ahead of storm seasons.
- Regulatory Influence
- The extent to which insurers may mandate resilience upgrades like FORTIFIED Roof™ in high-risk zones.
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