Winter's Hidden Toll on Buildings: A Growing Concern

Winter weather is often overlooked when discussing natural disasters, but it can be just as damaging.

The Impact of Winter Storms

• Blizzards
• Ice Storms
• Extreme Cold

Recent years have seen billions in damages and repairs:

• 2022: Winter storms caused $6 billion in insured losses.
• 2021: The Arctic wave in February caused up to $24 billion in damages, including widespread power outages, especially in Texas.

Expanding Threat Zones

Every winter, property owners face:

• Roof Collapses under the weight of snow
• Frozen and Burst Pipes
• Building Damage from freeze-and-thaw cycles

These issues are no longer confined to the Northeast and Midwest but now affect areas as far south as:

• Texas
• Louisiana
• Florida

The Role of Technology

Technology is playing a significant role in helping property owners prepare for winter storms:

• Lessen: Uses weather data to predict storm impacts and create strategies to deal with them. Provides support before, during, and after storms, including helping with insurance claims.
• AccuWeather: Offers detailed forecasts and tailored alerts, helping owners plan and minimize damage.
• WeatherWorks: Provides comprehensive weather tracking, giving owners a 360-degree view of potential threats.

Proactive Measures for Long-Term Success

The increasing climate risk means that acting proactively and responding efficiently is essential for long-term success. Property owners must prioritize the health and resiliency of their portfolios to weather the toughest storms.