Saskatchewan sees spike in recent hail insurance claims activity

Saskatchewan has seen a dramatic increase in hail insurance claims activity, according to the most recent bi-weekly report posted by the Canadian Crop Hail Association.
“As of mid-week, the claim total had swelled to nearly 5,500, more than double the total reported two weeks ago,” the association reports. “While there were storms on a number of days, the largest claim numbers have been generated by storms on July 26 and 29.”
The association reports the total number of Saskatchewan claims is still below last year and below average for this point in the season. “However, storm severity seems to be more intense than last year which could mean a higher cost per claim,” the association says.
Alberta has seen a moderate increase in hail claims over the past two weeks. “Alberta’s claim total is now approaching 1,700, up from 930 two weeks ago,” the association says, noting storms on July 18-19 contributed to a bump in the claims numbers.
Overall, Alberta’s claim total for the year is slightly less than last year and less than average for this point in the growing season. The numbers represent straight hail claims only and do not include claims filed under crop insurance endorsements.
In Manitoba, hail insurance claims remain light, the association reports.
“There are fewer than 600 claims in Manitoba. Over the past two weeks, fewer than 100 new claims have been filed.”