May 7- 8 Northern Ohio Storms Losses Top $31M

A series of storms on May 7 and 8 centered across the top half of the state caused at least $31.4 million in damages, according to preliminary insured loss estimates released by the Ohio Insurance Institute (OII).

Thunderstorms produced hail, wind and a May 7 tornado that touched down in Wood County. The National Weather Service reported hail measuring between 1.25 to 1.5 inches in Sandusky.

According to Property Claim Services (PCS), Ohio is one of four states affected by this weather pattern along with New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. PCS estimates overall losses at $85 million with $32 million in Ohio.

May storm – Preliminary Ohio loss estimates

Twenty-seven property/casualty insurance companies participated in the OII May storm loss survey. They represent approximately 80 percent of Ohio’s personal auto and homeowners insurance markets and about 30 percent of Ohio’s commercial lines market based on 2008 Ohio premium volume.

Insurance company estimates ranged from two to more than 1,630 claims. Losses reported by companies varied from a low of $2,500 to over $7.1 million. Most of Ohio’s top 10 writers of auto and homeowners insurance participated in the survey.

Damage to roofs, gutters, siding, windows and walls from fallen trees and limbs were the most commonly reported homeowners insurance losses. Auto damage was mostly caused by hail and included vehicles at several car dealerships.

“Since these are preliminary loss estimates and don’t represent all insurance companies, we expect damage figures to rise,” said OII President Daniel J. Kelso.

OII preliminary estimates (based on information from 27 P/C insurers)

Estimated number of claims: 8,161

• Homeowners: 5,792
• Auto: 1,934
• Business: 435

Loss estimates: $31.4 million

• Homeowners: $24.8 million
• Auto: $3.6 million
• Business: $3 million

Although storm losses were substantial, this is not one of the costliest.

Source: OII