The U.S. is no stranger to natural disasters, especially during the late summer period, with September being National Preparedness Month. A billion-dollar natural disaster is any catastrophic natural event, such as hurricanes, floods, wildfires, earthquakes, and more, that causes damage that exceeds one billion dollars. Year after year we witness destructive forces of nature impacting homes and communities nationwide, with billion-dollar disasters happening more frequently.
In this article, we take a look at data from the NOAA about billion-dollar natural disasters in each state. Our graphics let you see which states have been hit hardest by each type of weather event. As climate change leads to an increasingly volatile world, we find that disaster preparedness is more than just an option for those with extra resources; it needs to be an essential part of life for all of us. For this reason, we also share key tips for preparing your home for common disasters where you live.
The Increasing Frequency of Billion-Dollar Disasters
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As you can see in the graphic above, decade after decade we have seen more billion-dollar disasters. From 2004 to 2013 there were a total of 92 declared natural disasters which led to costs of over a billion dollars. However, in the last 10 years, from 2014 to 2023, there have been 173.
That’s an 88% increase, decade-on-decade.
In the last 20 years, 2023 saw the most amount of billion-dollar disasters with 28 declared, most of which being severe storms. Yet it was 2017 that had the biggest economic impact, with a whopping $392 billion worth of damage from storms, cyclones, and flooding, among other natural events.
As of July 2024, we have already witnessed 19 disasters costing over a billion in damages. This already puts 2024 joint 4th over the last 20 years with the highest number of expensive disasters declared.
Total Billion-Dollar Disasters by State
If you’re looking to move States, it’s wise to know the most common natural weather disasters and their frequency there to ensure your new home is prepared. For example, if you’re used to droughts now and again in New Mexico, you may want to make sure you’re up to date with how to prepare for frequent severe storms if you’re moving over the border into Texas or Oklahoma.
In the last 20 years, we’ve seen 284 billion dollar disasters, affecting all states with the exception of D.C. Texas is the most affected state, having seen 144 billion dollar disasters since 2004. This is followed by Georgia (98), Illinois (96), Missouri (91), and Oklahoma (89). In general, severe storms are the most common cause of expensive and extensive damage, but there are clear geographical differences depending on where you live. States in the west and southwest regions suffer major drought and wildfire disasters. The northeast region suffers mainly from major winter storms. Hurricanes, tornados, and severe storms affect the Southeast more than any other disaster.
How to Prepare Your Home For Natural Disasters
Floods
Top states most affected by billion-dollar flood disasters: Missouri, Louisiana, Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Texas
If you are moving to or living in any of these areas, having the following flood preparation could save you in repair costs later:
Consider the installation of sump pumps in your basement, the addition of backflow valves to your sewage system, and securing any fuel tanks to prevent potential spills and basement contamination in the event of a flood disaster.
Opt for flood-resistant materials like ceramic tile, vinyl, or rubber for flooring. Consider plaster, cement board, concrete, or pressure-treated, decay-resistant wood for your interior walls and ceiling. Replace wooden doors and window frames with metal.
Ensure your home's foundation is secure by sealing cracks with mortar or hydraulic cement and waterproofing your basement walls. Install drain plugs for basement floor drains to prevent sewer backups, and consider adding flood vents to prevent water pressure buildup during floods.
Secure items like air conditioning condensers, heat pumps, water meters, and other service equipment on platforms or pedestals raised at least one foot above the projected flood elevation.
If you have homeowner's insurance you should know that it does not usually extend to covering floods. Consider getting additional flood insurance.
Tropical storms
Top states most affected by billion-dollar tropical storms: Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama
Over the past 20 years, these five states have declared the highest number of billion-dollar tropical storms. If you are moving to or living in a state prone to these storms, consider the following tips to secure your home this storm season:
To protect your home interior against the destructive forces of high winds and water infiltration, consider investing in hurricane shutters and storm windows.
Swap gravel landscaping with lighter, fire-resistant materials.
Trim weak branches and trees to prevent them from falling on your house.
Replace your exterior doors with hurricane-proof doors with sturdy hinges and deadbolt locks.
Replace old garage doors with wind and impact-resistant options.
Seal wall openings using high-quality urethane-based caulk to prevent water infiltration.
In order to reduce or potentially eliminate the expenses associated with restoring damage, it is important to have a homeowner's insurance.
Related article: Hurricane Impact Report 2024
Wildfire
Top states affected by billion-dollar wildfires: California, Idaho, Oregon, Arizona, Montana, Washington
If you are moving to or living in a state that is at risk of wildfire, make sure you are well prepared for such an event. Follow government guidelines, which include the following:
Consider replacing your roof with a Class A-rated roofing with noncombustible coverings. Additionally, install or replace eaves with shorter overhangs and flat ledges to avoid the embers catching on them.
Secure exterior attic vents and under-eave vents by using metal wire mesh with openings no larger than 1/8 inch to effectively block embers from entering. Additionally, consider installing a fire block in the space between the upper portion of framed walls and the foundation of your house to prevent spreading the fire.
Use fire-resistant caulk, mortar, or fire-safe expanding foam to close any openings in the exterior walls and roof.
To protect your home from radiant heat during a fire, consider installing multi-pane windows or tempered safety glass, which act as barriers against heat transfer. Additionally, fire-resistant shutters can provide an extra layer of defense.
Consider installing a sprinkler system that creates a moisture barrier around your home, reducing the risk of embers igniting it.
Home insurance usually covers wildfire damage, but in areas at high risk for wildfires, the coverage might have some restrictions.
Freeze and Winter Storms
Top states affected by billion-dollar winter storms: New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia, North Carolina
Freeze disasters causing billion-dollar damage are the rarest of all disasters. In the past 20 years, eight states including Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina, Kentucky, and Alabama were each hit by two billion-dollar freeze events.
Here are some tips on how to prepare your home for freeze and winter storms:
Have your furnace or heating system inspected before winter to ensure it’s in good working condition.
Wrap exposed pipes in insulation to prevent them from freezing and bursting.
Check windows, doors, and walls for any cracks or gaps that might let in cold air. Use weather stripping or caulk to seal them.
Drain and turn off your lawn sprinkler system, and your lawn equipment in a garage or shed.
Clean your gutters to prevent ice dams, and check for any loose or damaged shingles that could cause leaks during a storm.
Homeowners insurance typically covers damage from winter storms, including roof damage or collapse caused by heavy snow, water leaks from a roof damaged by the storm, and damage from pipes that burst due to a freeze.
Related: How Much Does it Cost to Prepare Your Home for Winter?
Preparedness and Awareness
Understanding the climate where you live can help you better maintain your home. Seasonal weather changes will dictate the materials your home has and the maintenance tasks you carry out. But natural disasters can be unpredictable, and extremely costly when it comes to repairs.
Securing traditional home insurance can be difficult if you've made previous claims or live in a high-risk damage-prone area. One solution is to get a FAIR Plan (Fair Access to Insurance Requirements) that specifically covers high-risk homes.
If your home has suffered damage due to a natural disaster, you can access valuable information on the restoration process and costs through our damage recovery guides.