Billion-dollar disasters have ravaged the United States in 2024, with unprecedented damage and costs. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), there have been 24 confirmed weather or climate disaster events in the US with losses exceeding $1 billion.
The most impactful disasters include severe storm events, tropical cyclones, wildfires, and winter storms. These events resulted in at least 418 fatalities and significant economic loss in the affected regions.
Hurricanes were a major contributor to these disasters, particularly Hurricane Helene, which caused widespread damage and killed 225 people. Another Category 3 hurricane, Hurricane Milton, also made landfall near Florida, causing storm surge and tornadoes that damaged homes and businesses.
Other notable disasters include the tornado outbreaks in June and July, with some areas experiencing over 79 tornadoes in a short period. New Mexico wildfires also caused significant damage, with the South Fork Fire destroying over 1,000 structures.
The growing frequency and cost of billion-dollar disasters is attributed to climate change, as well as an increasing population and infrastructure on coastlines. Scientists and emergency managers are working together to analyze these events and learn from them to improve disaster preparedness and response.
The total cost of billion-dollar disasters since 1980 exceeds $2.78 trillion, with the annual average number of events increasing. The impact of these disasters is felt across the country, highlighting the need for continued investment in disaster mitigation and preparedness efforts.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/US/billion-dollar-disasters-2024-analyzing-matters/story?id=116832379