Technology is shaping better data and analytics for improved wildfire response. Instead of guessing about how a fire has grown and which insureds are impacted, insurers can access regular fire boundary updates within SpatialKey. Up-to-date wildfire perimeter data has historically been a challenge, with insurance professionals resorting to hand-drawn boundaries or custom shapefile creation. Now, insurers can gain a much more accurate and comprehensive understanding of exposure by overlaying the latest fire perimeter data, including multiple models such as RedZone, GeoMac, and NASA data (all available during the latest California fires), with their portfolio data to visualize exposure, apply buffers and filters, and understand TIV and/or policy exposed limits.
Recent wildfires in Northern California, specifically in Napa and Sonoma counties, have sparked widespread devastation across the area to lives, homes, and businesses. Despite the fires still being active, and the numbers still being calculated, this event is already “the deadliest and most destructive series of wildfires in California history,” and among the worst in U.S. history. And with damages estimated between $3 billion and $6 billion (which could still rise), insurers may face another massive payout due to natural catastrophes in 2017. These devastating events are proof that data is the only line of defense for insurers. And, it’s more paramount than ever to gain a better understanding of how you can use data to better mitigate and underwrite wildfire risk going forward.
