COLORADO – 2018 had it’s fair share of costly disasters, around the world, in the U.S., and here in Colorado. Many here are still dealing with the aftermath of last summer’s hail storms. As it turns out, the June hail storm that targeted Fountain and the southeastern part of Colorado Springs, was one of the costliest storms. Not just in Colorado, but across the country.
Here is a look at the billion-dollar disasters the U.S. experienced in 2018.
- 14 storms caused 91 billion dollars in damage last year
- The fourth most since records began in 1980
- Heat was again, a big story
Globally, 2018 was 4th warmest on record, and 9 of the last 10 years make up the top ten list.
And that’s just heat.
As for natural calamities, there were 14 events that cost more than $1 billion.
Here’s a breakdown across the country.
Starting from the west coast, there were wildfires, drought, hail events, tornado and severe storm outbreaks, snow storms in the northeast, and hurricanes from Florida to the Carolinas. It ran the gamut. Interestingly, it was a relatively docile tornado season.
And a few powerful hurricanes topped the list. Michael was worst, in terms of dollars and cents. Then comes the western wildfires and Hurricane Florence, both tied for second.
Colorado not only made the list but did so three times! Twice for hailstorms, and once for the drought which continues.
The total of the above, resulted in 247 lives lost, and $91 billion in damage, nationwide.
The list is a reminder of how important it is for our weather team and our viewers to stay on top of crazy, changeable, Colorado weather.
