MALVERN, PA — U.S. insurers paid $1.04 billion in lightning-related homeowners insurance claims in 2024, a 16.5% decline from the $1.24 billion recorded in 2023, according to the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I). The total number of claims also fell 21.5%, reaching 55,537, the lowest level since before 2017.
This reduction reflects increasing awareness and preventive measures, according to Sean Kevelighan, CEO of Triple-I. “Fewer claims and a decline in severity indicate increased awareness and improved mitigation,” Kevelighan said. “Nonetheless, lightning remains a significant threat to property and safety, particularly during storm season.”
The majority of claims came from the top 10 states, with Florida, Texas, and California leading the rankings. Florida, which experiences the nation’s highest number of thunderstorms annually, recorded 4,780 lightning claims in 2024. While Florida led in overall claims, Texas posted the highest average cost per claim at $38,558, far surpassing the national average of $18,641.
State Farm, the largest U.S. homeowners insurer with $31.46 billion in direct premiums written in 2024, underscored the risks posed by lightning. Michal Brower of State Farm said, “Lightning remains a costly and unpredictable threat, with ground surges causing nearly half of all claims. These events can cause extensive damage to electrical systems, appliances, and even structural issues. The damage underscores the critical need for homeowners to be aware of the risks, invest in protective measures, and stay prepared.”
Data was released as part of National Lightning Safety Awareness Week (June 22–28). The Triple-I’s report noted that power surges from lightning are a major driver of costly claims, with damages often covered by standard homeowners insurance policies.
Experts emphasize the importance of proactive protection against lightning strikes. Tim Harger, executive director at the Lightning Protection Institute (LPI), remarked, “Whether it’s a family home or a mission-critical facility, no property is immune to lightning. The most effective time to prevent lightning damage is before a storm. A lightning risk assessment paired with a professionally installed protection system can make all the difference in keeping people safe and operations uninterrupted.”
As lightning strikes can occur at staggering speeds of 100 times per second, experts warn that vigilance and preparation are key to mitigating financial and structural impacts. The decline in claims demonstrates progress, yet the unpredictable nature of lightning requires ongoing attention to safety measures across the country.
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