May 21 storm sixth costliest weather event in Canadian history, Insurance Bureau of Canada says
Damage is estimated at over $720 million in Ontario and $155 million in Quebec
Author of the article:Megan Gillis
Publishing date:Jun 17, 2022 • 11 hours ago • 1 minute read • Join the conversation
A late May wind storm that toppled power lines and trees, and damaged homes caused more than $875 million in insurable damage in Ottawa, southern Ontario and Quebec.
A late May wind storm that toppled power lines and trees, and damaged homes caused more than $875 million in insurable damage in Ottawa, southern Ontario and Quebec. PHOTO BY TONY CALDWELL /Postmedia
The storm that toppled trees and hydro poles in Ottawa caused more than $875 million in insured damage as it swept from southern Ontario into Quebec May 21, according to initial estimates.
Damage is estimated at over $720 million in Ontario and $155 million in Quebec according to Catastrophe Indices and Quantification Inc., the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) said in a release.
The bureau pointed to the widespread destruction, deaths — at least five in the Ottawa area and 10 across Ontario — and widespread power outages.
“The derecho event ranks as the sixth largest in terms of insured losses in Canadian history and is a sobering reminder of the increasing risk climate change poses to communities across Canada,” IBC said in the release.
“IBC continues to advocate for a National Adaptation Strategy that will result in tangible short-term measures that improve Canada’s climate defence. Governments at all levels must act with urgency to prioritize investments that reduce the impact of these severe weather events on families and communities.”
Eight of the costliest disaster in Canadian history have happened since 2011.
Top 10 natural disasters in Canada by insurance payouts (2021 dollars)
Fort McMurray wildfires, 2016, $4 billion
Eastern Ice storm, 1998, $2.3 billion
Southern Alberta floods, 2013, 1.8 billion
Alberta hailstorm, 2020, $1.2 billion
Toronto flood, 2013, $1 billion
Ontario-Quebec windstorm, 2022, $875 million
Toronto flood, 2005, $780 million
Ontario windstorm, 2018, $695 million
British Columbia flood, 2021, $675 million
Slave Lake fire, 2011, $600 million
Wind damage is usually covered by home, commercial property and auto insurance policies, IBC said.
The bureau was on the ground in Ottawa after the storm and said residents with insurance questions can reach them at 1-844-227-5422) or
ConsumerCentre@ibc.ca and find more information about wind damage online.
Tornado season is typically between March and October, with peak activity during late June and early July. Plan ahead to protect your family, home and business.
ibc.ca
Damage is estimated at over $720 million in Ontario and $155 million in Quebec.
torontosun.com