Indiana is a U.S. state located in the Midwestern and Great Lakes regions of North America. It is bordered by Michigan to the north, Ohio to the east, Kentucky to the south and southeast, and Illinois to the west. Indianapolis is the state capital and largest city. Indiana is known as the "Hoosier State" and its residents are known as Hoosiers, although the origin of the term is debated. Historically, Indiana has been part of the Northwest Territory and became the 19th state to join the Union on December 11, 1816. The state has a diverse economy with significant manufacturing, agriculture, and transportation sectors.
The types of risks most likely to cause home insurance losses in Indiana include:
Tornadoes:
Indiana is situated in the Midwest, which is part of the area known as Tornado Alley. Tornadoes are a significant risk, especially during the spring and early summer months.
Severe storms:
Apart from tornadoes, Indiana experiences severe thunderstorms that can bring hail, strong winds, and heavy rain, leading to property damage and flooding.
Flooding:
Certain areas of Indiana are prone to flooding, especially after heavy rains or rapid snowmelt. This can cause significant damage to homes, particularly in low-lying areas.
Winter storms:
Indiana winters can be harsh, with heavy snowfall and ice storms leading to roof damage, pipe freezing, and other property damage.
Windstorms:
High winds, apart from those associated with tornadoes and thunderstorms, can also cause damage to homes, such as tearing off roofs or downing trees onto buildings.
Regarding specific examples of recent large events that have led to a high volume of home insurance claims in Indiana:
The Super Outbreak of April 2011:
This was one of the largest and most destructive tornado outbreaks in U.S. history, affecting several states including Indiana. Numerous homes were destroyed or severely damaged.
The Great Flood of 2008:
Widespread flooding affected large portions of Indiana, especially along the White River, causing significant property damage.
The 2012 Drought:
One of the most severe droughts in decades, it impacted agriculture severely but also led to subsidence and structural damages to properties.
Winter storms:
Events like the January 2014 North American cold wave brought extreme cold, heavy snow, and ice, leading to numerous insurance claims related to burst pipes, ice damming, and roof damage.
These events, among others, have led to significant home insurance losses in the state.