This year's storm season ranks among the most costly in recent years. According to preliminary estimates by Munich Re, the world's largest reinsurer, total damages from hurricanes and typhoons amount to 133 billion dollars – a record figure since 2017. This significantly exceeded the ten-year average of 89.2 billion dollars in economic losses.

The hurricane season in the North Atlantic contributed significantly, with total damages of $110 billion. Hurricane "Helene" proved to be the deadliest and most expensive storm of the year. With wind speeds of up to 225 kilometers per hour, it caused damages amounting to $56 billion and claimed over 200 lives in several US states. A total of 18 cyclones were counted in the North Atlantic, of which eleven reached hurricane strength.

In the western Pacific, Munich Re counted 25 typhoons, slightly below the long-term average. The economic losses amounted to 22 billion dollars, a slightly above-average value. Taiwan, Japan, the Philippines, and southern China were mainly affected.

The exceptionally high sea surface temperatures in the North Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico are considered a significant factor for the intensity of the storms. According to Munich Re, the water temperatures during the entire storm season were near or above previous record levels. Climate researchers point out that warmer seawater favors stronger hurricanes, which bring more rain and stronger winds.

Of the estimated total economic damages of 133 billion dollars, only 51 billion dollars were insured, i.e., less than half. The insured losses from natural disasters worldwide – including floods, storms, and earthquakes – have already exceeded the 100 billion euro mark this year, according to Munich Re.

For decades, Munich Re has operated its own geoscientific department to better assess natural disasters and their economic impacts. Given the increasing effects of climate change, the role of such analyses is becoming increasingly important.