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How ‘kitty cats’ are wrecking the home insurance industry

Summary

Severe convective storms, or "kitty cats," are driving up home insurance costs in the Midwest. These storms cause significant damage through hail and tornadoes, resulting in higher premiums and the withdrawal of insurers from affected areas. The rising frequency and intensity of these storms, potentially linked to climate change, exacerbate the problem. Insurers are struggling to manage risks, leading to increased financial burdens on homeowners. Efforts to improve building resilience and updated storm-protection standards are crucial to mitigate the impact of these climate-related disasters.

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