Winter storm in North America: loss estimate

The Elliott storm, which strongly affected the United States, Canada and the north of Mexico, disrupted the Christmas holidays for millions of citizens.

The States worst affected were Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina and New York. The winter storm, coupled with blizzards and extreme cold waves, caused record low temperatures in some areas.

The death toll exceeded 60 people, from an estimated 32 deaths a few days earlier. According to the authorities, the death toll could be even higher. Power outages and flight cancellations were also reported as part of the damage caused by the weather disturbance.

Experts are expecting to see flooding after the thaw and frozen pipes bursting.

According to the preliminary estimates by Karen Clark & Company (KCC), the amount of insured losses is likely to reach 5.4 billion USD in 42 states.

Most claims would be related to residential, commercial and industrial properties as well as to damaged vehicles.