Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

2025 Sees Record $101 Billion in Weather Disasters

10/24/2025

38 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

In the first half of 2025, the United States recorded 14 weather-related disasters totaling $101 billion.
Los Angeles wildfires were the largest event, with losses over $60 billion and about 16,000 buildings destroyed.
This period was the costliest start to any year since 1980, driven by storms and tornadoes.
Experts link the rise to climate change, with the U.S. averaging 20 billion-dollar disasters annually, up from 3 in the 1980s.

History

Historical Context

The 1980 heat wave and drought devastated the U.S., claiming at least 1,700 lives and causing $20 billion in agricultural damage. This marked the beginning of a trend, with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reporting an increase in billion-dollar disasters, reaching an average of 20 annually by 2025. The escalating costs underscore the urgent need for effective climate policies.

1 of 2

Story summary

In the first half of 2025, the United States recorded 14 weather-related disasters totaling $101 billion.
Los Angeles wildfires were the largest event, with losses over $60 billion and about 16,000 buildings destroyed.
This period was the costliest start to any year since 1980, driven by storms and tornadoes.
Experts link the rise to climate change, with the U.S. averaging 20 billion-dollar disasters annually, up from 3 in the 1980s.

1 / 2