Storms in Berlin: Insured losses fell significantly in 2023!

Storms in Berlin: Insured losses fell significantly in 2023!

In recent years, extreme weather events have caused increased damage in Germany. But the latest reports show a mixed outcome for 2023. According to Daily Mirror Berliners suffered less damage from storms than in the previous year. The insured natural hazard damage amounted to around 39 million euros, while in 2022 it was still 46 million euros.

Much of the damage in Berlin was caused by storms and hail, which amounted to around 14 million euros. In addition, around 7 million euros in damage was recorded due to heavy rain and flooding. Damage to vehicles totaled 18 million euros. However, it should be noted that the total damages are likely to be higher as not all damages are insured. In a nationwide comparison, Berlin does relatively well, with lower damage than in other federal states.

Comparison of the damage in Berlin and Brandenburg

In direct comparison to Brandenburg, the insured damage in Berlin is significantly lower. In the neighboring region, a total of 92 million euros of insured natural hazard damage was registered in 2022, which meant an increase of 76 million euros in 2021. Around half of the damage, around 49 million euros, was caused by storms and hail. In addition, floods and heavy rain cost a further 18 million euros.

The damage in Brandenburg often occurred during extreme weather events, particularly on the first holiday weekend in July. Statistical analyzes show that numerous cellars were flooded during this time and many trees fell, which led to significant traffic disruptions. Air traffic at the capital's BER airport had to be temporarily suspended.

Alert levels and support

Further flooding occurred in September 2022 when the Oder overflowed its banks and caused damage in Eisenhüttenstadt. In view of these events, the highest alert level 4 has been declared in the region. Prime Minister Dietmar Woidke (SPD) then personally visited the affected areas to provide support.

In a nationwide comparison, the figures show that Brandenburg had less severe damage than Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, where insured losses each amounted to around 1.6 billion euros, but the frequency of such events remains worrying. Developments in recent years highlight the challenges faced by both insurers and those affected.

The issue of natural hazards and the associated damage will certainly remain relevant in the future, as climate change continues to impact the frequency and intensity of weather events. Experts are therefore calling for increased preparation for such events in order to minimize the consequences for society and the economy.