Wildfires sweep across the California hillside

The wildfires across Southern California, spurred on by the Santa Ana winds, have consumed thousands of acres, threatened to destroy several well-known landmarks, and forced the evacuation of more than 100,000 residents. Wildfire season traditionally begins in the spring, but dry vegetation, a few minor sparks and high winds can combine into a force almost impossible to extinguish. The cause of these fires is under investigation, but regardless of their origin, the damage will be severe, expensive and have a long-tail impact. A severe drought and even insufficient water are making it difficult for firefighters to extinguish the flames as flying embers ignite new fires.?

Technology will play a major role in helping carriers identify and confirm damage. Drones and the aerial images they capture will help insurers close claims faster, especially since many areas will be smoldering for weeks, preventing other types of damage assessments. Payment technology, particularly direct deposit and other forms of electronic payments, will also be helpful, as many policyholders may no longer have a physical address where they can receive paper checks. Climate change is just one of the factors being attributed to what has now become a year-round threat and the insurance impacts from these fires will be felt for months and years to come.

Los Angeles wildfires' insured losses risk exceeding $10B

Home landscaping and maintenance can beat wildfires

This year's hottest app is a wildfire tracker

Malibu residents increasingly rely on pricey insurance as wildfire rages

California's climate resilience fund takes aim at state's wildfire scourge