Nor’easter and Alaska Storm Trigger Claims Risks With Fatalities, Flooding, and Power Outages

An early-season nor’easter struck the U.S. East Coast on October 13, bringing dangerous winds, coastal flooding, and widespread power outages from North Carolina to Massachusetts. The storm claimed the life of a Brooklyn resident after wind gusts dislodged a solar panel. High wind advisories and states of emergency were issued in New York and New Jersey, impacting transit systems and grounding flights, especially in major hubs like Boston and New York City.

For insurance claims adjusters, the event raises early alarms about potential seasonal storm patterns and infrastructure vulnerabilities. More than 42,000 power outages and over 600 flight cancellations disrupted daily operations and could increase property and business interruption claims. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s truck ban and flooding in low-lying areas like Manhattan’s Battery suggest elevated risks for commercial auto, flood, and transportation-related claims.

Simultaneously, Alaska faced its own catastrophic weather event as a powerful storm forced the evacuation of coastal communities. Winds and storm surge destroyed homes and set tide records near the Kuskokwim River. With 34 confirmed rescues and ongoing search efforts, adjusters serving remote and Indigenous Alaskan communities may soon face logistical and cultural challenges in damage assessments and claim verifications.

This rare dual-coast storm scenario highlights the operational pressure adjusters face from concurrent catastrophic events. It also emphasizes the importance of cross-regional claims coordination and early CAT mobilization. Adjusters will need to prepare for property, flood, and windstorm claims in both urban centers and remote environments, all while navigating access limitations, emergency declarations, and possible infrastructure shutdowns.