Gallagher Re Natural Catastrophe Events report 2021 - A summary of insured losses and economic impact due to natural disasters (2024)

Gallagher Re Natural CatastropheEvents report 2021A summary of insured losses andeconomic impact due to naturaldisastersVolume 10

Table of contentsMajor natural catastrophes in 2021 per region based on insured losses ............................................. iiiContact us ................................................................................................................................ ivIntroduction................................................................................................................................21. In focus ...............................................................................................................................42. Major natural catastrophes in 2021........................................................................................ 103. Other natural catastrophe events by peril and location.............................................................. 41Abbreviations ........................................................................................................................... 54Sources................................................................................................................................... 55Natural Catastrophes in 2021 ii

Major natural catastrophes in 2021 per region based oninsured lossesNatural Catastrophes in 2021 iii

Contact us John E. Alarcon, Ph.D., M.Sc. Prasad Gunturi, M.Sc. Executive Director Executive Vice President Catastrophe Analytics, Gallagher Re Catastrophe Analytics, Gallagher Re Gallagher Re Gallagher Re 25 Fenchurch Avenue, 8400 Normandale Lake Blvd, Suite 1700 London EC3M 5AD Bloomington, MN 55437 D +44 (0) 20 3124 8678 D +1 952 841 6641 john_alarcon@ajgre.com prasad_gunturi@ajgre.com Yingzhen Chuang Vaughn Jensen Regional Director Executive Vice President Catastrophe Analytics, Gallagher Re Catastrophe Analytics, Gallagher Re Gallagher Re Gallagher Re 25 Fenchurch Avenue, 8400 Normandale Lake Blvd, Suite 1700 I London EC3M 5AD Bloomington, MN 55437 D +44 (0) 20 7558 9340 D +1 952 841 6641 Yingzhen_Chuang@AJGRe.com vaughn_jensen@ajgre.comWith special thanks to the Natural Catastrophe Events reporting team:Luke Williams (EMEA W/S, London) | Roy Cloutier (NA, Minneapolis) | Natasha Denn (APAC, Ipswich)| Charlie Mariner (APAC, Ipswich) | Alexander Paul (EMEA N/E, Ipswich) | Laura Lin (EMEA N/E,Ipswich) | Ricarda Linz (EMEA N/E, Munich) | Marc Beeg (EMEA N/E, Munich) | Nigel Moreira (EMEAN/E, Mumbai) | Satish Sharma (EMEA N/E, Mumbai) | Sarah Lochhead (EMEA W/S, London) | SophieBarratt (EMEA W/S, London) | Matt Day (EMEA W/S, London) | Becs Hill (EMEA W/S, Ipswich) | ZoeGorton (LAC, Ipswich) | Nikil Pujari (NA, Mumbai)January 2022Natural Catastrophes in 2021 iv

IntroductionThis report summarizes economic and insured losses from themost relevant natural catastrophe events that occurred during2021. The loss values presented herein include those reported byGallagher Re, catastrophe model vendors, reinsurance companiesand third-party organizations. Loss estimates are presented in U.S.dollars (USD), for which rates of exchange at 1st December 2021,have been used.Our insured loss estimates from major natural catastrophes in 2021of about USD 116 billion are the third largest since 2011, after theannual market losses of USD 143 billion in 2017, and the USD 120billion in 2011. The 2021 losses are 63% larger than the average overthe past 10 years (see figure below). The largest losses of the yearcame from Tropical Cyclones with 35% of the overall losses, followedby Severe Thunderstorm with 25% of the annual loss. In terms of Our insured lossinsured losses by region, North America had 68% of the total, followed estimates from majorby EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) with 23% of the global loss.It is important to highlight that these estimates do not include losses to natural catastrophesthe industry coming from either COVID-19 or man-made insured losses. in 2021 of about USD 116 billion are theIn the U.S. the largest insured losses from a single event came from third largest sinceHurricane Ida in August with approximately USD 37 billion in allproperty insured losses (including offshore, NFIP, and write-your-own 2011.flood insurance program). Additionally, a series of unusual events suchas Winter Storms affecting the South in February, and SevereConvective Storms in the Midwest in December impacted NorthAmerica (details in the In Focus section). In Europe, the largest loss-causing event came in mid-July when Storm Bernd affected mainlyGermany and Belgium producing more than USD 13 billion in insuredlosses. A point worth noting is that the impact from Bernd came as aconsequence of the storm remaining in the region longer than expected(see the In Focus section). In Asia, in contrast with the tropical cyclonelosses observed in Japan during 2018/19, the 2021 season (similar to2020) saw no single typhoon making landfall in Japan. The eventsdrawing the most attention in Asia were the thunderstorms that affectedthe Province of Henan in China, while in Latin America and theCaribbean, the highlight of the year was the absence of significantindividual events causing large insured losses.The aforementioned events, along with others having lower insuredlosses, are described in detail in the second part of this report, listed inchronological order, while a summary of events is provided in the tablesat the end of the document, organized by peril/region affected inchronological order.Natural Catastrophes in 2021 2

Insured losses from natural catastrophes since 2011 (Gallagher Re estimates)Distribution of 2021 insured losses by peril and by region. Tropical Cyclone lossesand events in North America w ere the most impactful in 2021 (Gallagher Re). Natural Catastrophes in 2021 3EMEA: Europe, Middle East and Africa; APAC: Asia Pacific; LAC: Latin Americaand the Caribbean.

1. In focusThe US in 2021 – An extraordinary year for extreme weatherIn the US, 2021 industry losses were driven by unusual events, including: i ntense winter stormsaffecting the South in February, hurricane driven inland flooding affecting the Northeast in earlySeptember, severe convective storms affecting the Midwest and Ohio River Valley in December,and a prolonged wildfire season with an end of year wildfire affecting the Mountain West.Potentially caused by a strong negative Artic Oscillation (AC)during the first half of February, unusually cold weather and aseries of winter storms affected much of the contiguous US.From February 12th to 20th, the cold-air outbreak broughtfreezing temperatures, snow and ice from the northern plainsacross the central US and down to southern Texas (Figure 1).Freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall were reported instates that do not typically see extended periods of coldweather, including, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri,Louisiana and Mississippi. The state of Texas suffered a major Figure1: Minimum temperature from Februarypower loss affecting more than 10 million homes and 12 to 20 (Source: CPC, NOAA)businesses for several days. This exacerbated claims in Texasdue to burst pipes, which could not be heated without power. Freezing rain and sleet impacted Kentuckyand Tennessee, and later the frozen precipitation moved into the MidAtlantic states . The overall economiclosses for these events are estimated to be between USD 24 to 27 billion (NOAA) and the overall insuredlosses are estimated to be near USD 15 billion.The 2021 Atlantic hurricane season was the third most active onrecord, with 21 named storms, including seven hurricanes ofwhich four were major hurricanes. It was the first instance onrecord of two consecutive hurricane seasons exhausting the listof 21 storm names (NOAA). And it marks the sixth consecutiveabove normal Atlantic hurricane season. The year’s mostsignificant insured loss event for US regions is Hurricane Ida,with insured losses expected to exceed USD 37 billion. Ida is thefifth costliest hurricane to have impacted the US landmass, witheconomic losses estimated to be greater than USD 60 billion(NOAA). Ida made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane near Port Figure 2: Hurricane Ida’s path as of August 30Fourchon, Louisiana (Figure 2) on 29th August with maximum (Source: NOAA)sustained winds of 150 mph and a minimum central pressure of 930 mb.Hurricane Ida caused a huge economic loss, due to strong winds and flooding along its track. Thewidespread and intense rainfall affected highly populated areas from Philadelphia to New York, leading tomajor flash flooding. Newark and New Jersey recorded approximately 8.4 inches of rainfall per day andNew York city recorded approximately 3 inches of rainfall per hour. Flash flood warnings were issued inportions of Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Rhodes Island, Tennessee, New York and WestVirginia. A major disaster emergency was declared in New York City and neighboring counties, due tohurricane induced rainfall and flash flooding.Natural Catastrophes in 2021 4

Storm Bernd: Largest European Flood Loss on RecordFlooding from Storm Bernd generated large flood losses in central/western Europe, predominatelyin Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands, with the German Insurance Association (GDV)estimating insured losses of 8.2bn EUR in Germany. The scale of the losses led to reinsuranceprograms being affected to various extents, and impacted market dynamics at the 1/1/22 renewalsat regional levels. Gallagher Re has investigated some of the key characteristics of the event, asdiscussed herein.Why was Bernd so damaging?In Germany, the most affected areas around Erft and Ahr rivers were in very narrow valleys with steepslopes, creating a funnel effect and magnifying the impactof the extreme rainfall. The fast flowing, debris-ladenwater caused significant damage to properties andcontamination from debris within the flood-wave led toincreased clean-up costs. Furthermore, the impact uponlocal infrastructure, with bridges and roads destroyed,amplified the overall losses.The main flooding impacts occurred on secondarywatercourses, where limited flood defences were in placeand hence defence structures generally did not play a largerole in protecting properties. However, reservoir dams (like Figure 1: Flood debris in Schuld, Germany (Source: AFP)“Steinbachtalsperre”) did withstand the rising floodwaters.How does Bernd compare to historical floods?Germany has seen major floods in the recent past, with majorevents in 2002/2013 and flash flooding events in 2014/2016.Like Bernd, the 2013 floods occurred as a result of a stalledweather system, whereas in 2002 multiple weather systemsmoving from the Mediterranean led to flooding. Whilst the2013 floods primarily affected the Elbe and Danube, Berndflooding impacts were observed mainly along smaller rivercourses, in addition to occurring over a shorter period of timecompared to 2013. A common feature of the 2002, 2013 and2021 events was that soils were saturated in the precedingmonths to the event, leading to enhanced run-off during thefloods. Figure 2 compares the rainfall extent of historicalfloods. Climate Change may have some influence on the Figure 2: Rainfall extent of historical flooding ev ents. 2002 and 2013 had more severe rainfallfrequency and severity of flood events, with one consequence w ith maxima that exceeded Bernd by 20-50%of climate change potentially being the weakening of the jet (Source: Gallagher Re)stream, which caused the 2013 and 2021 storms to stall leading to more accumulated precipitation.Are ‘Bernd-like’ events captured in vendor models?We assessed the main vendor models to find events that had the key characteristics of Bernd inGermany; namely heavy localised rainfall causing extensive flooding away from the main rivers. We foundevents that had these characteristics and caused Bernd size market losses, within the vendor models.Other features such as existing soil saturation and the impact of topography are also captured within themodels. The inclusion and modelling of impacts such as flow velocity, contamination and debris flowsvaries between the traditional vendor models.Natural Catastrophes in 2021 5

The 2021 China Henan FloodsExtreme daily rainfall caused by a near-stationary set of thunderstorms affected the Province ofHenan, China between the 19th and 21st July 2021 (see Figure 1). This caused flooding, primarily inthe city of Zhengzhou, but also in the cities of Gongyi, Luoyang, Jiaozuo, Dengfeng and Ruzhou. Climate Processes: China's usual monsoon season, known as the Mei Yu season, provided moisture for two tropical cyclones which made landfall in late July 2021 – Severe Tropical Storm Cempaka, and Typhoon Infa. This moist air was funneled from the Mei Yu front towards the foothills of the Taihang Mountains. Cooling and Condensation of this moist air resulted in a large area of intense thunderstorms forming near the city of Zhengzhou. Figure 1: 24-hour rainfall accumulation from 06:00 UTC betw een 20th & 21st July 2021 (Source: South China Morning Post)In the 24 hours betw een 21:00 UTC 19 th and 20th July Zhengzhou received 644.6 m m of rainfall, w hich isgreater than the average annual precipitation of 640.9 m m . On 20th July this event also broke the record forthe highest one -hour rainfall am ount acros s the w hole of China, w ith 201.9 m m /hr falling betw een 08:00 &09:00 UTC. This is com pared to the previous record of 168.3 m m /hr.In the Provincial capital of Zhengzhou, shown in Figure 2, there was widespread flooding of the subwaysystem. In the city of Luoyang, a 20-meter breach occurred along the Yihetan Dam, forcing the military toperform a controlled blast to release the flood waters. To date it is estimated that the event has caused302 fatalities and insured losses of more than USD 1.92 billion. These losses followed the 2020 floodswhich affected Guangxi, Guizhou, Sichuan, Hubei and Chingqing.Figure 2: Aerial v iew of the flooded main urban area in Figure 3: Satellite image of Floodw aters in Henan, China,Zhengzhou, Henan prov ince. (Source: Getty Images) on July 26th, 2021. (Source MODIS; NASA Aqua)Natural Catastrophes in 2021 6

Latin America and the Caribbean: A relatively benign year impactedby compound peril eventsIn Latin America and the Caribbean, the impact of naturalcatastrophes has been relatively low, which is reflected inlow insured loss totals. The 2021 North Atlantic Hurricaneseason was the third most active in history, yet the impacton the region was not very significant when compared tothe United States. Compound perils have been a feature of2021, as Hurricane Elsa caused flooding after the volcaniceruption in St. Vincent. Similarly, Tropical DepressionGrace brought heavy rain and flooding in the aftermath ofHaiti’s August earthquake.Although the 2021 North Atlantic Hurricane season was veryactive, the impact of tropical cyclones on Latin America and the Figure 1: Hurricane Grace’s path as ofCaribbean has been less severe compared to last year, which 18th August (Source: NOAA NHC)had major hurricanes Eta and Iota developing late in theseason and making landfall in Central America. HurricaneGrace, a Category 3 storm, developed during August and wasthe most damaging storm for the region. Grace made twolandfalls in Mexico: as a Category 1 storm in the Yucatánpeninsula, before rapidly intensifying in the southern Gulf ofMexico to Category 3 hurricane, making landfall in Veracruz.Heavy rainfall and high winds caused flooding and poweroutages across the Caribbean, with the most severe damagein Mexico. Additionally, Mexico was impacted by six landfallingtropical cyclones from the eastern Pacific, the strongest ofwhich was Hurricane Rick, which made landfall as a Category2 storm in Michoacán.The most damaging event for the region occurred on 14thAugust when a 7.2Mw earthquake struck Haiti, causing over2,000 fatalities (Relief Web). This was compounded byTropical Depression Grace which brought heavy rainfall on16th August causing flooding and landslides, which, in turn, Figure 2: Shaking Intensity (MMI)hampered the ongoing relief effort. Insured losses were footprint for Haiti earthquake (Source:estimated to be around 250 million USD (KCC), despite USGS)economic losses reaching approximately 1.6 billion USD (IDB).This further highlights the protection gap faced by lesseconomically developed countries in the region.2021 saw the first significant volcanic eruption in the regionsince Volcán de Fuego in Guatemala erupted in 2015. LaSoufrière volcano, on the Caribbean island of Saint Vincent,erupted explosively on 9th April and periodic eruptionscontinued until 22nd April. Ashfall caused damage to crops andlivestock, plus disruption to water and power supplies.Roughly 16,000 people had to be evacuated (UNOCHA), andeconomic losses are estimated to range between 230-330 Figure 3: La Soufrière Volcano as of 9thmillion USD (UNDP). Similar to the earthquake in Haiti, the April (Source: NASA)effects of the eruption were compounded by heavy rains fromstorms including Hurricane Elsa. This caused flooding and landslides, and re-mobilised volcanic ash aslahars on the island.Natural Catastrophes in 2021 7

Japan 2020-2021 Tropical Cyclone SeasonThe average annual Japan landfalling typhoon frequency is around 3 (using 1991-2020 average).2021 saw no typhoons making landfall in Japan. The activity seen between 2018-2021 is withinexpectation and does not suggest a change in activity level compared to the past.The tropical cyclone (TC) season in the Western North Pacific basin (WNP) for 2021 started with slightlyabove average activity until July, after which the number of events remained below average.In Japan there have only been three minor landfallingTropical Storms (TS) this year: TS Nepartak in July, TSLupit in August and Typhoon Chanthu in September.All three had weakened to below Category 1 SaffirSimpson Hurricane Scale (SSHS) equivalent and arenot considered to be significant landfalls.2020 was similar, with no significant storms makinglandfall in Japan. However, unlike 2021, the number ofTCs forming was closer to the WNP basin activityaverage. The number of landfalls in Japan does notdirectly correlate to overall TC formation frequency.This contrast was best observed with the 2018-19seasons when several significant and large typhoonsmade landfall. Figure 1: Landfalling and bypassing TCs around Japan from 2020 (dark blue) and 2021 (light blue)Meteorological factors affecting landfalls In 2020, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) described the lack of landfalls as “ultimately coincidental” due to a variety of factors, including high sea surface temperatures in the Indian Ocean. This factor contributed to neutralising the convection currents High Pressure in the Philippine Sea, where the majority of TCs develop [1] . This in turn led to fewer storms developing. From August onwards, there were high pressure systems in the North Pacific which blocked storms from tracking into Japan. These systems stagnate over the area, unmoving, and re-route surface air flow around them, preventing TCs from approaching Japan and therefore reducing landfall (See Figure 2). A similar situation appears to have occurred in 2021.Figure 2: Meteorological map for 15th September2021, show ing a high-pressure system to the northof Japan, steering the TC south aw ay from Japan(Source: JMA)Natural Catastrophes in 2021 8

Secondary Perils: Informed decision-making through riskquantificationAt Gallagher Re we have the tools and understanding to use analytics to facilitate discussionsand ultimately improve resilience to secondary perils. Below we detail several cases of ouranalytical capabilities with regards to these.Severe Convective Storms index: In response to marketconcern over Severe Convective Storms within theSouthern European region, Gallagher Re developed theSevere Convective Storm index (SCSi). Utilising remotesensing data, the SCSi is used to assess the changingfrequency and location of Severe Convective Storms overthe past 40+ years. The applications of the index arebroad, ranging from improving resilience throughunderwriting assistance to validating the performance ofa*ggregate covers based on trends in exposure and claims.Regular reports on events are released throughout theseason and at year’s end to keep clients and carriersinformed on the ever-changing seasonal progression.Subsidence Model: France has experienced an increasein the frequency and intensity of subsidence events sincethe beginning of this century. The last three years, 2018 to2020, have been particular in terms of subsidence risk, Figure 1: Gallagher Re’s Sev ere Convectivewith more than 1 billion euros in average losses per year. Storm index ov er Italy in 2021In response to this, Gallagher Re has built a newsubsidence model to enable our clients to understandtheir portfolio’s exposure to subsidence risk. By buildingour own View of Risk, Gallagher Re can provide varyingsupport, from reserving and underwriting, toreinsurance, and helping our clients to protect earningsvolatility. A first estimation for the number and cost ofclaims at commune level is obtained in early Septemberof each year.Primary and Secondary Peril Correlation: Oftenprimary and secondary perils can be combined intosingle covers. Such arrangements require anunderstanding of the dynamic of interaction between theperils to fully quantify the risk. Using our in-house modelresearch and evaluation expertise Gallagher Re canassess the existence and extent of correlation betweencommonly grouped events. An example study was Figure 2: 2019 subsidence risk map over Franceconducted in France, where the correlation between dev eloped by Gallagher Re.SCS events and other perils were studied. The studyfound a range in correlation magnitudes between SCS events and straight-line wind, heavy rain andextratropical cyclone.Model Development: Where no models exist Gallagher Re has the in-house expertise to developmarket-leading models. Recently Gallagher Re has pioneered the first flood model for the MENA regionhelping our clients to derive actionable insights for a previously unmodelled peril and enabling riskquantification in all key property lines of business.For more information about how this or any of the other offerings outlined above may be used or adaptedto suit your needs please contact your Gallagher Re advocate.Natural Catastrophes in 2021 9

2. Major natural catastrophes in 2021WS Filomena 8-10 January 2021 Timeline and MeteorologySpain  5th January – The low-pressure area is located just to the West of the Azores. The Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) name the storm, Filomena. Spain was subjected to cold polar air for several days (AEMET).Insured losses  8th – 10th January – The extratropical cyclone meets with the polar flow, bringing(in USD millions) exceptionally heavy snow to central, Total: 832 eastern, and northern Spain (AEMET). Private Insurers:  10th – 17th January – The cyclone passed, 259 (UNESPA) and the anticyclonic conditions re-formed State over Spain. The anticyclone, combined with Compensation the effect of snow on the ground, produced Fund: 573 a 7-day severe cold spell. (Ministerio del  These extreme conditions could be Interior) attributed to a Sudden Stratospheric Snow accumulation for 7-10th January Warming event, which disrupted the jet- (AEMET image) stream. (AEMET; Met Office).Fatalities 4 (Spanish Impact Government  30-50cm of snow fell in central, northern, Official) and eastern Spain for 8-10th January (AEMET). Heaviest snowfall in Madrid since 1971 (AEMET).  Mean daytime temperatures for 1 st – 17th January were 3.8℃ below the 1981-2010 baseline, and several record low temperatures were set. In the mountainous eastern city of Teruel, -21.0℃ was recorded (AEMET).  7 of Spain’s 17 autonomous communities were recognized as eligible for state-funded insurance compensation. 573 million USD Minimum temperature recorded on 12 th granted by Spanish government for 6,643 January (AEMET image) claims (Ministerio del Interior).  113 million USD of damage to the agricultural industry in central Spain (European Parliament) Natural Catastrophes in 2021 10

WS/FL 18-20 January 2021 Christoph Timeline and Meteorology UK  18th January – Christoph is recognized as a low-pressure system and named by the Met Office. Amber alerts are issued (Met Office).  18 - 20th January – 50 to 100mm of rain falls across Wales and north- west England. 100mm falls in parts of Wales, south-west England, the Lake District, and the Pennines. As Insured losses much as 200mm falls in localised (combined for all areas (Met Office). countries)  20-21st January – Flooding affects (in USD millions) basins in Wales, northwest England  106-159 and Yorkshire, (300 flood warnings (PwC) had been issued by the Environment Agency in the days prior) (RMS). Actual rainfall values during Storm Christoph Fatalities Impact  The River Dee reached its highest (Met Office image)  Unknown ever recorded level, 16.46m on Jan 21 (Floodlist).  Estimated 5800 properties were affected by floodwater in total (RMS).  Approximately 3000 inhabitants had to be evacuated from homes in Greater Manchester (RMS).  A bridge over the River Clwyd in Denbighshire was swept away by floodwater (Met Office).  Train lines were affected by floods River Dee hydrograph during Storm between Liverpool, Manchester, Christoph (Floodlist image) York and Darlington (RMS).  The Environment Agency reported that 38’000 properties had been saved by flood defences (Environment Agency)Natural Catastrophes in 2021 11

BL Southern U.S.A. 12-15 February 2021 Timeline and MeteorologySouthern &  On Feb 12th, a large upper-level trough broughtWestern U.S.A. heavy precipitation to the Pacific Northwest.  Ahead of the system, scattered rain/snow impacted parts of OR and WA throughout the day.  As a surface low moved over the Pacific Northwest on the 13th, heavy snowfall impacted northwestern Washington, with areas furtherInsured losses south along the OR coastline receiving heavy Winter storm reported on February 13 (source:(in USD millions) rainfall. SPC, NOAA)  Snowfall tapered off for Colorado during the >1,000 (PCS) evening hours on the 14th, with accumulations reaching 4-6” at lower elevations, and 12-18+ at higher elevations.  The upper-level trough began to dip over Texas and the southern Plains late on the 12th into the 13th.  Four to eight inches of snowfall impacted many areas across the north/central region Texas, with some areas seeing higher amounts.  The winter precipitation from this storm system moved out of Texas during the evening hours on February 15th and later was followed by another system generating similar winter weather conditions. Satellite image of the large winter Impact storm on February 16, 2021.  Texas was most impacted by this event with (source: NASA EOSDIS huge supply chain disruption of various products.  Emergency were declared in all 254 counties of Worldview) Texas, 9 counties in Northwestern Oregon and Clark County in Washington.  Close to 500,000 properties were affected by power outages.  According to media reports, there have been reports of damage to residential structures as well as downed trees and powerlines across various areas of the state. Natural Catastrophes in 2021 12

Japan Earthquake 13 February 2021 Timeline and SummaryOffshore  13th February - At 14:07 UTC (23:07 local time), af*ckushima magnitude Mw7.1 earthquake struck offshore of f*ckushima, Japan, approximately 44.7 mi (72.0 km) east-northeast of Namie at a depth of 27.3 mi (44.0 km) (USGS).  The earthquake was felt across eastern Honshu, Hokkaido and the Greater Tokyo Area (RMS).  No tsunami warnings were issued by authorities,Insured Loss although a maximum tsunami height of 0.2 m (0.65Estimate ft) was observed at Ishinomaki Port, Miyagi (RMS).(in USD millions)  The Japan Meteorological Society considered the earthquake to be an aftershock of the March 2011 2,134 (GIAJ + Mw9.0 Tohoku earthquake (RMS). Zenkyoren) 2,630 (CRESTA  More than 19 million people experienced Estimate) ‘Moderate’ shaking on the Modified Mercalli Index (MMI) scale, and over 2 million people experienced ‘Very Strong’ shaking (RMS).Fatalities2 (FDMA) Impact  More than 950,000 homes in the Tohoku and Kanto regions of eastern Honshu did not have access to power and many power plants throughout the country went offline (RMS). ShakeMap from USGS for the Mw7.1  Several thousand homes within Miyagi and earthquake that struck offshore from f*ckushima prefectures were temporarily left f*ckushima in February 2021 (Source: USGS). without water supply, and there were reports of damage to infrastructure throughout the impacted prefectures (RMS).  The Fire and Disaster Management Agency (FDMA) estimated that 36,299 buildings suffered some form of damage (FDMA).  One of the most impacted cities was Sōma, in which the photograph in figure to the right was taken.  Within the city, a 100 m (330 ft) section of the fishing port was vertically displaced by up to 10 cm (3.9 in), with liquefaction resulting in sand ejection from fissures in asphalt near the wharf (The Japan News).  In Sendai and Shiogima, two fires broke out as a Rockfall following Mw7.1 earthquake intrudes result of the earthquake. Both were extinguished road in the city of Sōma, Japan (Source: by the fire department with no known injuries (FDMA). Associated Press). Natural Catastrophes in 2021 13

BL Southern & 16-20 February 2021Midwest U.S.A. Timeline and MeteorologySouthern & Midwest  On February 16th, after very cold temperaturesU.S.A. remained in place over Texas and the southern Plains, a slow-moving, upper-level trough moved eastward over Texas.  Scattered snowfall moved into northeastern Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, eventually became more widespread overnight.  The heaviest snowfall fell in parts ofInsured losses northeastern Texas, central-southern Arkansas, Winter storm reported on February 16 (source:(in USD millions) and northwestern Mississippi. SPC, NOAA)  Freezing rain and sleet impacted Kentucky and >1,000 (PCS) Tennessee, and later the frozen precipitation moved into the Mid Atlantic states.  Extremely cold temperatures continued across Texas, Louisiana and the southern states.  Widespread winter precipitation continued across the eastern states and widespread snowfall and freezing rain impacted the Mid- Atlantic, with heavy snow falling in parts of New York. Impact  Heavy snowfall blinded motorists as many vehicles crashed in a slow chain reaction on an icy Interstate road in Lonoke, Arkansas.  Total snow accumulations from the storm ranged from 6 to 10 inches in the state of New York. A developing storm in the Southern and  Snow and ice accumulations impacted Eastern United States on February 16 roadways primarily in West and Middle (source: WPC) Tennessee resulting in hazardous travel conditions in state of Tennessee.  Emergency was declared several counties of Oklahoma and Texas.  Freezing temperatures along with lack of power caused severe damage to homes throughout Texas.  Close to 600,000 properties were affected by power outages Natural Catastrophes in 2021 14

WS Klaus-Luis 10-13 March 2021 Timeline and MeteorologyFrance, Belgium,  Klaus-Luis has been combined as oneUK, Ireland, individual event as the two low pressureGermany, systems affected northwest EuropeNetherlands, consecutively within a 72h period (PERILS).Luxembourg  Late February – Jet Stream began to strengthen and pushed a series of low- pressure systems across the Atlantic (Met Office).  10th March – The Met Office issued a yellow warning for wind and the low-pressure areaInsured losses “Klaus” brought wind gusts exceeding 100 Km/h to Ireland and the UK. The storm(in USD millions) moved east and on 11th March, France, 192 (PERILS) Belgium, Netherlands and Germany were exposed to strong winds (PERILS).  12th March – Cyclogenesis occurred off theFatalities west coast of Scotland to form storm “Luis” 2 (PERILS) (PERILS).  13th March – “Luis” was centred just north of Germany in the North Sea, bringing wind gusts exceeding 90 Km/h for northern France, Belgium, Germany and Netherlands (RMS). Impact  Max gusts per country: Netherlands, 120Km/h; Ireland, 119Km/h, France, 191Km/h; Germany, 151Km/h, UK, 150Km/h; Belgium, 108Km/h (PERILS).  1000 power outages are reported in Norfolk, UK (RMS)  Structural damage to buildings in Germany, Belgium, Netherlands and the UK (RMS)  Several major train routes blocked in Storm Klaus (top) and Storm Luis Germany (Deutsche Bahn). (bottom) wind gust forecasts  The fire brigade of Brussels was involved in 118 incidents, and fire brigades in northern (EuroTempest images) Germany were called to 410 incidents (RMS). Natural Catastrophes in 2021 15

ST Southern U.S.A. 24-26 March 2021 Timeline and MeteorologySouthern &  An upper-level low pressure system originatingSoutheast U.S.A. from the Four Corners region moved eastward into the southern Plains, bringing large hail up to 3” in diameter to north/central Texas including Austin and the Dallas areas.  The low-pressure center began to intensify and led to a tornado outbreak developing over theInsured losses Southeast / Lower Ohio Valley.(in USD millions)  Along with the tornadoes, winds created damage >1,000 (PCS) across Southeast regions of and Ohio Valley including the states of Mississippi, Tennessee, Thunderstorm reported on March 24 (source: and Kentucky. SPC, NOAA)Fatalities: 6 (PCS)  By early March 26, the storm system made its way northeast, bringing damaging winds to states including Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey before moving offshore. Impact  An emergency was declared in several affected counties in Alabama.  Hailstones up to 1.75 inches were reported in state of Georgia and up to 2 inches in affected regions of Tennessee and Texas.  Trees toppling, roof damage due to high wind speeds and hail damage were the most common Thunderstorm reported on March 25 (source: forms of damages reported in these regions. SPC, NOAA)  Close to 300,000 properties were affected by power outages in the entire region. Natural Catastrophes in 2021 16

St Vincent (LaSoufrière) Volcanic 9-22 April 2021EruptionSt Vincent and the TimelineGrenadines  La Soufrière volcano, on the island of St Vincent, erupted explosively on 9th April 2021. This followed a period of greater volcanic unrest, increased seismic activity and lower-level effusive eruptions since December 2020.  Explosive eruptions continued periodically withInsured losses the last major eruption on 22nd April.(in USD millions)  Eruptive and seismic activity decreased after the ~ eruption on 22nd April, with the volcano alert level reduced from Red to Orange, and as of 14Economic losses December 2021, to Yellow.(in USD millions)  Later in the year, heavy rains and tropical storms ~230-300 (Hurricane Elsa) caused flooding and landslides, (UNDP) and re-mobilised some ash into lahars. 30% of GDP La Soufrière Volcano as of 9th April (Source: NASA) (IMF) Impact  Eruption column reached a height of 10km andEvacuees ashfall mainly affected the north of the island. ~16,000  High hazard zones in the north (vulnerable to (UNOCHA) significant ashfall, pyroclastic density currents and lahars) were evacuated within 24 hours.Fatalities This process was further complicated by 0 (UNOCHA) additional requirements for Covid-19 vaccinations for evacuees to enter cruise ships and neighbouring islands.  Pyroclastic density currents and lahars were reported in localised areas in the north of the island, throughout the two-week eruption period.  Ashfall also reached the surrounding islands of the Grenadines, Barbados and St Lucia but did not cause any significant damage or disruption.  Eruption affected water and power supplies on St Vincent, closed airports and severely Map of La Soufrière as of 9th April (Source: damaged crops and livestock. European Commission) Natural Catastrophes in 2021 17

ST Texas U.S.A. 15-16 April 2021Texas U.S.A. Timeline and Meteorology  On April 15th, scattered thunderstorms developed over central TX along a surface front in a region of steep temperature lapse rates and deep wind shear.  The setup led to the formation of large hail, gusty winds and localized flash flooding.Insured losses  The northern Greater Austin area was among(in USD millions) the hardest hit, which resulted in widespread damage to roofs and vehicles. >1,000 (PCS)  The convection very slowly slid to southeastern Texas brining more severe thunderstorms, heavy rainfall and localized flooding for far Thunderstorm reported on April 15 (source: eastern Texas  Storms weakened and eventually shifted to the SPC, NOAA) east of Texas by the evening hours on the 16 th April. Impact  Large hailstones were reported in serval parts of Williamson County, Leander City, Round Rock City and Burnet County.  The storm caused severe damage to homes and vehicles, shattering glass windows and windshield.  Strong wind gusts in Central Texas led to downed trees and caused damage to housing structures and vehicles. Natural Catastrophes in 2021 18

ST Southern U.S.A. 27 April – 2 May 2021Southern & Timeline and MeteorologyNortheast U.S.A.  On April 27th, an upper-level low located over the Central Rockies triggered severe thunderstorms impacting the central United States.  Thunderstorms formed northeast of Colorado in a region of maximized low-level convergence, producing several tornadoes, large hail, severeInsured losses wind gusts, and abundant precipitation. .(in USD millions)  Additional strengthening of the system occurred >1,000 (PCS) on 1st May, leading to heavy rainfall and thunderstorms movement through the Southeast on the 2nd May. Several tornadoes were Thunderstorm reported on April 27 (source: observed in Louisiana and Mississippi SPC, NOAA)  The system generally weakened and moved out of the Southeast region by the late evening on the 2nd. Impact  Washington and Montgomery county, Maryland reported severe wind gust leading to thousands of power outages across area.  Hailstones up to 4 inches in size were reported in Medina county. Hail of up to 3 inches in size was reported in Cheyenne, Val Verde, Tarrant, and Cleveland counties. Thunderstorm reported on May 2 (source:  Several tornadoes were reported in states of SPC, NOAA) Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma and Texas.  Strong winds downed trees onto roadways in portions of the affected regions. Natural Catastrophes in 2021 19

ST Midwest U.S.A. 17-20 June 2021Midwest & Timeline and MeteorologyNortheast U.S.A.  On 17th June, a cold front moved over the upper Mississippi valley resulting in widespread, large hail and damaging wind gust over southeastern and western Wisconsin.  By 18th June, severe thunderstorms developed across central Indiana, resulting in large hail and strong wind gusts over northeasternInsured losses Indianapolis.(in USD millions)  There were reports of a few tornadoes across Illinois through western Ohio, with a large EF1 >1,000 (PCS) tornado confirmed southwest of Dayton, Ohio.  On the backside of the frontal system, a line of Thunderstorm reported on June 18 (source: severe thunderstorms intensified across the SPC, NOAA) Midwest resulting in locally heavy rainfall and some areas of dangerous flash flooding.  By 19th June, very heavy rainfall was reported from central Illinois through Ohio.  Later, the line of severe thunderstorms moved eastward across the southern end of Lake Michigan resulting in strong wind gusts, tornados, and hail.  A damaging tornado impacted the Chicago metro area near Naperville, Illinois. Impact  Several tornadoes with wind gust varying from 110 to 70 mph were reported to have caused damages to farm outbuildings and residential buildings in the state of Illinois.  Hailstones, 3 inches or larger, were reported in Iowa, Michigan, Indiana, and Minnesota.  Many reports of damage to roofs and siding damage to homes and commercial buildings and vehicles damage was reported in almost all affected areas. Natural Catastrophes in 2021 20

Europe Hail 18 June – 1 July 2021Austria, Czech Timeline and MeteorologyRepublic,  Late June- central Europe was under the influenceGermany, of a high-pressure system with warm temperaturesSwitzerland and high humidity. This system was repressed by low-pressure systems arriving from the west with cold Atlantic air causing the two atmospheric layers to combine.  The unstable atmospheric conditions created strong convection which produced severe storms with heavy rainfall and hail (RMetS).Insured losses  On June 18th severe thunderstorms formed in(in USD millions) Germany, which moved from northwest into southern parts of Germany, where ideal conditions Hail Volker, combined Hail Size Footprint in >1,132 (AIR) in Germany of enough wind shear and warm and moist air in Munich and Reutlingen 21st – 23rd June >1,000 (AIR) in the lower atmosphere facilitated the formation of a (source: Gallagher Re using ESWD data) Switzerland rotating mesocyclone (supercell) (RMetS). 1,132 (Munich  June 21st - two low pressure systems called Volker Re) in Germany and Wolfgang facilitated the formation of two 4,500 (Swiss hailstorm streaks with nearly the same track over Re) suburbs south of Munich (DWD). 2,821 (MSK) in  Severe convective storms caused by the same Europe macro weather situation occurred around >1,132 (MSK) in Reutlingen and Stuttgart on June 23 rd. Germany  Northern and southeastern parts of Austria were affected from June 25th – 28th until the storm 1,919 (GDV) in activity shifted northeast towards the Czech Germany Republic (RMetS).  Another hailstorm event from June 28 th to July 1st Hail Austria, consolidated Hail Size Footprint 21stFatalities came from a low-pressure system called Xero, – 28th June (source: Gallagher Re using ESWD 5 (RMS) which caused major hail damage in Switzerland and heavy rainfall in Germany. data) Impact  The aggregated impacts of the severe convective weather events caused widespread damage to property, motor vehicle and agricultural areas as well as infrastructure (DWD).  The majority of the damage resulted from giant hail and heavy rainfall. Southern Germany and Austria were most heavily affected by Hail (DWD & ZAMG).  Numerous observations of hailstone sizes in excess of 2cm (up to 6cm+ in Germany and up to 11 cm in Austria) (ESWD).  Heavy rainfall totals affecting the south of Germany (up to 115l/m² per day) (DWD).  The severe convective storm activity across Europe culminated in a destructive tornado, which caused widespread damage in southern Moravia, Czech Republic (RMS). Natural Catastrophes in 2021 21

Czech Republic 24 June 2021TornadoSouth Moravia, Timeline and MeteorologyCzech Republic  The tornado occurred in the South Moravia region of the Czech Republic between 7 pm andMax. Category F4 8 pm local time (17:00-18:00 UTC), destroying several villages and towns within a track more than 25 km long and 700 m wide. The EF4 tornado is one of the strongest European tornadoes recorded.  It formed near the village of Hrusky and wentInsured losses through the southern part of the village moving(in USD billions) north-eastwards, passing through Moravska Nova Ves further north, then crossing Mikulčice 0.24 (Generali) and Lužice, and eventually ended in Hodonin 0.16 (Primm) (EUMETSAT). 0.15 - 0.2 (ReIns  It was part of a severe convective storm system Ground pressure chart with fronts and pressure News) (June 21-25), which brought up large hail, heavy systems from June 24, 2021 00UTC (FU-BERLIN) rains, and flash flooding to Breclav and Hodonin districts in the Czech Republic as well as to partsEconomic losses of Poland (RMS).(in USD billions)  Wind speeds were estimated to be between 165 unknown and 200 mph (265-320 km/hr), corresponding to an intensity of EF4 on the Enhanced Fujita Tornado Intensity Scale.Fatalities Impact 5 (RMS, BBC)  The tornado completely leveled half of Hrusky (The Guardian), destroyed the church tower, and removed the roof of the elementary school. According to local authorities, only 15% of the Tornado Footprint based on Sentinel-2 HDVI buildings were undamaged in Hrusky (BBC). difference data (EUMETSAT)  The tornado completely leveled half of Hrusky (The Guardian), destroyed the church tower, and removed the roof of the elementary school. According to local authorities, only 15% of the buildings were undamaged in Hrusky (BBC).  In Lužice, 120 houses were damaged (a third of the village).  More than 100,000 homes lost power during the event (BBC). Significant traffic disruption due to fallen trees and power lines, particularly along the motorway between Prague, and Bratislava has been reported. Natural Catastrophes in 2021 22

European Floods 12-19 July 2021 Timeline and MeteorologyAustria, Belgium,  From the 12th to 19th of July, the low-pressureFrance, Germany, system ‘Bernd’ brough prolonged heavy rainfallNetherlands, to parts of central/western Europe, bringingSwitzerland significant flooding impacts.  A weak jet stream led to the blocking of Bernd over central Europe for several days, during which it drew in moisture from the Mediterranean, leading to high and in places historical, rainfall totals.Insured Losses  Soils were at or near saturation as a result of a wetter than average, which meant soils in the(in USD millions) worst affected areas had very little storage 5,700-9,100 capacity. (Hannover Re) 13,000 (Swiss Impact Re)  Severe flooding occurred particularly in the 9,100 German states of North Rhine-Westphalia and (Germany only, Rhineland-Palatinate, as well as in Luxembourg, GDV reported and along the river Meuse and some of its as €8.2 billion) tributaries in Belgium and the Netherlands. 2,100 (Belgium  In Germany, significant localised rainfall only, Assuralia) amounts of 150-200mm within 24 hours occurred, which exceeded the 100yr precipitation return period according to WRNFatalities partners. According to ICEYE, over 37,000 Accum ulated precipitation [m m ] 196 (Science) buildings were damaged in Germany, with further damage occurring to infrastructure including bridges and roads (ICEYE).  In Belgium, the central and eastern regions of Accumulated precipitation over 72 hours over Wallonia, Liege and Limbourg were most impacted, with significant property damage Germany for 12th to 14th of July 2021 (source: reported in Liege. Over 27,000 buildings were DWD) affected in Belgium according to ICEYE.  In the Netherlands, south Limburg was most notably affected, with property damage occurring in Valkenburg following the overflowing of the De Geul river within the city. ~1,700 structures were impacted in the Netherlands by the flooding according to ICEYE.  Less significant flooding impacts were also observed in Switzerland, Luxembourg and north-eastern France.  Current market loss estimates suggest Bernd is the largest German flood loss on record, with initial loss estimates deteriorating as the scale and damage extent of the flooding became clear. As of late 2021, market speculation indicated the final event loss could be in excess of 12bn EUR (>13.4bn USD) (Gallagher Re). Natural Catastrophes in 2021 23

Dixie Wildfire 14 July – 5 October 2021California, U.S.A. Timeline  The Dixie Fire burned from mid-July to early October 2021 in the Plumas National Forest, Lassen National Forest, and Lassen Volcanic National Park; and in the California counties of Butte, Lassen, Plumas, Shasta and Tehama.  Exceptionally dry vegetation, caused byInsured losses drought, combined with hot weather and(in USD millions) strong winds to produce very active fire behavior. >1,000 (PCS)  The nearby Fly Fire, which started on July 22, was managed under the Dixie Fire East Zone command and eventually merged withFatalities: Unknown the Dixie Fire.  Impact  The Dixie Fire burned 963,309 Acres  A total of 1329 structures were destroyed, and 95 structures were damaged. Extent of the Dixie Wildfire (source: InciWeb) Natural Catastrophes in 2021 24

China Floods 19-21 July 2021 Timeline and MeteorologyHenan, China  Throughout the month of July, heavy rainfall caused by thunderstorms affected Henan Province in China.  19th July - A system of nearly stationary thunderstorms developed causing flooding in the province of Henan, mainly affecting the citiesInsured Loss around the Yellow and Haihe Rivers.Estimate  Between 21:00 UTC on 19th July and 21:00 UTC(in USD billions) on 24th July, Zhengzhou received 644.6 mm of rain which is greater than its average annual Maximum hourly rainfall in Zhengzhou on 20 th 1.92 (CBIRC) precipitation of 640.9 mm, and broke the record for July 2021 (China MeteorologicalFatalities the highest one-hour rainfall amount with 201.99 Administration). mm/hr .302 (RMS)  20th July - Severe Tropical Storm Cempaka made landfall in Guangdong.  25th July - Typhoon In-fa made landfall in Zhejiang. The monsoon circulation fed these two cyclones which provided additional moisture.  The cyclones also helped to funnel a mass of moist air from the monsoonal circulation towards the foothills of the Tai-hang Mountains.  The funneling caused extra cooling and condensation of the air mass and led to the large area of intense thunderstorms to form near the city of Zhengzhou. Impact Spatial Key map of affected region with Kinetic  26th July - Approximately 933,800 people had been Corp Tropical Cyclone Tracks and key synoptic evacuated, with an estimated 13 million people settings labelled. affected (Henan Business Daily).  As of the 2nd August, 302 deaths were reported (JBA).  972,100 hectares of crop land were damaged (Henan Business Daily).  14,000 houses have collapsed with a further 32,000 badly damaged by the flooding (JBA).  In Zhengzhou, the subway system was flooded, with reports of 12 fatalities and 5 injuries as a result of this.  In the city of Luoyang, a 20 m breach occurred along the Yihetan Dam, forcing the military to perform a controlled blast to release the flood waters (Independent).  As of the 7th September, 513,200 insurance claims Aerial view of the flooded main urban area in had been submitted with 346,000 of those having Zhengzhou, Henan Province (Aljazeera). been settled already (CBIRC). Natural Catastrophes in 2021 25

Southern European July – September 2021WildfiresGreece, Italy, TimelineTurkey, Spain  From July to September wildfires ignited across areas of southern Europe with Greece, Turkey, Spain, and Italy being severely impacted.  During this period Southern Europe experienced one of the most intense heatwaves in the last 30 years, with daily temperatures frequentlyInsured losses reaching in excess of 45°C. In addition to this(in USD millions) strong northerly winds also prevailed which Unknown created conditions prime for wildfires.  The European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS) estimated that more than 600,000Economic losses hectares burnt across the region. Turkey Land Surface Temperature heatmap for(in USD millions)  Wildfires broke out at the end of July mainly Greece and Tukey from 3rd August Unknown affecting the provinces of Muğla and Antalya. (Copernicus)  There were 8 fatalities over the period (BBC).  10,000 people fled their homes, and the TurkishFatalities Government is offering between 10,000 - 50,000 Unknown liras to affected citizens.  The Agricultural Insurance pool (TARISM) has reported 85m Turkish Lira of losses. Greece  Wildfires ignited across the country, with significant fires in the suburbs of Athens and on the island of Evia, resulting in 2 fatalities.  2,000 people were evacuated from Evia and 50,900 hectares were burnt (Copernicus).  The Hellenic Association of Insurance Companies has estimated the economic loss to be greater than €410m, with €38.5m of that loss Aerial view of the Evia Wildfire, captured on being insured. 7th August (European Space Agency, Italy PlanetScope)  Southern mainland Italy, Sardinia, and Sicily experienced multiple large fires with 5 fatalities being reported.  In Sardinia, 20’000 hectares were burnt and 1500 were evacuated (The Guardian). Spain  Multiple wildfires took hold across Spain, with the most widespread damage occurring within the northwestern region of Castilla y León.  In August, 8 villages had to be evacuated in Castilla y León as 22,768 hectares burnt in this major forest fire (Reuters; Copernicus).  There was 1 fatality as a result of the September wildfire in Andalusia, which prompted the evacuation of 2,000 people and burnt 7,400 Map showing the damage grading of the hectares (BBC News). Castilla y León fire as of 19 th August (Copernicus) Natural Catastrophes in 2021 26

Central Africa 10-26 August 2021Floods Timeline and MeteorologyNiger, Sudan, South  The central African rainy season typicallySudan extends from May to October with wettest periods between July and September.  In 2021 heavy rainfall throughout much of mid- June to late-August resulted in numerous flooding events across much of Central Africa, with the most severe impacts being observed in Niger, Sudan and South Sudan.Insured losses Niger(combined for all  Over the rainy season flooding affected 238,000countries) people with a total of 77 fatalities being recorded, 20,000 houses destroyed and(in USD millions) Flooding Occurrence in Central and facilitating widespread cholera outbreak across Unknown the country (OCHA). Western Africa Source: OCHA  The worst single event occurred between 10-26Economic losses August affecting 158,000 people across 77(in USD millions) communes in all eight regions of the countries Unknown and resulting in 60 fatalities (Floodlist). SudanFatalities  Heavy rain since the start of the rainy season coupled with exceptional rainfall between 24-31Niger August caused the Nile River water levels to exceed danger levels (OCHA). 77 (OCHA)  Flooding affecting over 380,000 people in 12 outSudan of Sudan’s 18 states. (ReliefWeb) 43 (Floodlist)  43 Fatalities were reported at the end of augustSouth Sudan due to flooding (FloodList). 7 (Floodlist) South Sudan People affected in South Sudan (Source:  Heavy rains since the start of the rainy season Reliefweb caused flooding which affected over 466,000 people in 15 out of South Sudan’s 22 states (OCHA).  In the worst affected area of Unity state, overflowing dykes resulted in 7 fatalities. Natural Catastrophes in 2021 27

FL Turkey 10-14 August 2021Turkey – Northern Timeline and MeteorologyTurkey  Heavy rainfall that began on August 11, 2021, impacted northern Turkey and caused floods in the cities of Bartin, Kastamonou and Sinop (AFAD).  Heavy rainfall of 200 to 300 mm triggered floods and landslides, causing damage to property,Insured losses motor and infrastructure (AFAD).(in EUR millions) Impact Unknown  Approximately 45cm of rain fell in less than three days in one village near Bozkurt, the worst Floods in Sinop, Turkey, August 2021. Photo: affected region (Aljazeera). Turkish Coast Guard (Source: Floodlist)  More than 1700 people were evacuated from theFatalities affected areas and as many as 330 villages were 81 (FloodList) left without power (BBC).  Approximately 454 buildings, some bridges and vehicles were severely damaged in three provinces (Aljazeera).  81 fatalities were reported to have occurred due to the floods (FloodList). Natural Catastrophes in 2021 28

HU Grace 13-21 August 2021Mexico, Caribbean Hurricane Grace was the seventh tropical cyclone in the 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season. It was the most damaging storm this year to impactMax. Category 3 the Caribbean.Category 1-3 atlandfall Caribbean  Grace formed in the central tropical Atlantic on the 13th August, before intensifying on the 14th August when heavy rainfall was experienced around the Lesser Antilles.Insured losses  On August 16th Grace impacted Haiti and the(in USD billions) Dominican Republic 0.3-0.33 in  Between 17th-18th August Jamaica and the Wind Speed and Path of Hurricane Grace (Source: Mexico Cayman Islands experienced heavy rain and NASA, NHC) (Insurance wind. Journal)  Haiti experienced flooding and high winds which 0.03 in the exacerbated the effects of the earthquake it Caribbean experienced on August 14th. (Insurance  The Dominican Republic saw several power Journal) outages and 558 houses were damaged by high wind.  In Jamaica, power outages and blocked roadsEconomic losses were experienced, in addition to flooding (Relief(in USD billions) Web). Unknown  The Cayman Islands saw little damage, although there was disruption to power and water supplies as well as flooding (Relief Web).Fatalities At least 8 (BBC) Mexico  Once Grace reached Mexico, landfall was made on 19th August on the Yucatán Peninsula at Category 1.  On 21st August landfall was made as a Category 3 hurricane to the south of Tuxpan, Veracruz.  In the Yucatán Peninsula, damage was low and mostly consisted of fallen trees. Satellite Image of Hurricane Grace (Source:  Approximately 700,000 people experienced NASA) temporary power shortages in the Yucatán Peninsula (Forbes Mexico).  Significant damage was experienced in Central Mexico to coastal structures.  Severe flooding and mudslides occurred in Veracruz. Natural Catastrophes in 2021 29