The overall cost of natural catastrophes is declining in 2009, according to Swiss Re

A survey conducted by Swiss Re has revealed that the cost of natural catastrophes amounts to 15 billion USD for insurers in 2009, that is, half the 2008 costs. This decrease is partly accounted for by the low number of the weather-related events which occurred in the United States during the cyclonic season. In comparison, Katrina cost 71 billion USD in 2005. In 2009, it was Asia that was hardest-hit by earthquakes and typhoons. According to Swiss Re's forecasts, global warming will have serious fallout as of 2010.