“ There are also estimates of circa $10 billion in insured rising water damage - mostly government insured. Rising water damages are guesstimated at $20-30 billion not insured, being mostly inland. They've been hurt hard - as we've all seen on TV.

I haven't seen any estimates of insured business interruption losses. I don't know how much Berkshire subs are involved in this area. But downed power lines and washed out Interstate highways must be having a major impact.

With Milton hitting most of Florida, particularly so soon after Helene, wind damages could be worse.”

Thanks & I echo your concerns, esp. growing up in NC and hearing directly from those H.S. friends living there as well as having several very close friends in Tampa, a couple on the water.

FYI-My buddy in Western NC texted me yest:

“Things are slowly getting better. Lots of supplies and volunteers. Biggest challenge is getting to people in the remotest areas. Power getting back on line but the number of roads wash away is going to be a big long term problem.” He thinks the final casualties number will be in the thousands.

On another note, I saw a guest on CNBC today say Avg. National homeowner insurance premiums are up 52% over last 4.5 years, although higher in certain high risk areas of TX, LA, FL where the avg. homeowners per month may be $500. The weaker insurance players may fade away but we know BRK will always be there, if the pricing of risk is appropriate.

In some circumstances don’t we agree to a defined capped risk at the time of some Reinsurance contracts? For instance paying a certain billions in claims After the initial billions have been paid by the primary insurer?

Thanks & our thoughts & prayers go out to all those affected from these disasters.