US insurers paid $1.04 billion in lightning-related homeowners’ insurance claims in 2024, according to the Insurance Information Institute, or Triple-I. The total represents a 16.5% decrease from the $1.24 billion paid in 2023.
The number of claims also declined sharply. Insurers reported 55,537 lightning-related claims in 2024, down 21.5% from 70,787 the previous year. This marks the lowest total recorded since before 2017. More than half of all claims originated in the top 10 states, led by Florida, Texas and California.
“Fewer claims and a decline in severity indicate increased awareness and improved mitigation,” said Triple-I CEO Sean Kevelighan. “Nonetheless, lightning remains a significant threat to property and safety, particularly during storm season.”
The national average cost per claim rose to $18,641 in 2024, a 6.4% increase from 2023. Texas reported the highest average cost per claim at $38,558.
“Lightning remains a costly and unpredictable threat, with ground surges causing nearly half of all claims,” said Michal Brower of State Farm. “These events can damage electrical systems, appliances, and building infrastructure. The data highlights the importance of preparedness, particularly in high-frequency lightning areas.”
State Farm, which reported $31.46 billion in direct homeowners premiums written in 2024, remains the largest writer of homeowners’ insurance in the US. Lightning-related losses are typically covered under standard homeowners’, renters’, and business policies. Some policies also cover power surges resulting directly from a lightning strike.
Florida recorded the highest number of claims in 2024 with 4,780, followed by Texas with 4,369 and California with 4,005. Texas also led in total claim value at $168.5 million.
Over a longer timeframe, the data show a shift in the nature of lightning-related losses. Between 2017 and 2024, the number of claims declined by 34.7%, while the average cost per claim rose nearly 73%, reflecting factors such as rising repair costs and increased use of electronic devices in homes.
The Lightning Protection Institute (LPI) noted the ongoing exposure and recommended proactive measures. “Whether it’s a family home or a mission-critical facility, no property is immune to lightning,” said LPI executive director Tim Harger. “A lightning risk assessment and a professionally installed protection system can reduce the impact of future events.”
