Initial Loss Estimate for Windstorm Éowyn Announced by PERILS
The Zurich-based catastrophe insurance data specialist, PERILS, has unveiled its preliminary industry loss estimate for the extratropical windstorm known as “Éowyn” or “Gilles.” According to data gathered from affected insurers, the estimated loss stands at €619 million.
Occurring on January 24-25, 2025, this powerful storm brought intense winds to the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, and the Central Belt of Scotland. For Ireland, Éowyn represents the most significant windstorm loss in over 45 years, while for the UK, it is the largest since February 2022.
Éowyn was characterized as a highly intense European extratropical cyclone, with record wind gusts reaching 185 km/h in Ireland. Its impact was severe, causing power outages for approximately 1.8 million properties and bringing transportation to a near halt. Tragically, the storm resulted in two fatalities due to related incidents.
This estimate pertains to the property line of business, consistent with PERILS’ European coverage definition. An updated market loss estimate is scheduled for release on April 25, 2025, three months post-event.
PERILS noted, “From a European standpoint, Éowyn’s impact on the insurance sector was not unusual, with windstorm losses of this magnitude occurring roughly once a year. However, for Ireland, Storm Éowyn was exceptional, marking the largest windstorm loss in at least 45 years.”
Luzi Hitz, Product Manager at PERILS, commented, “Two notable aspects of Éowyn’s impact stand out. Firstly, despite its severity, the storm resulted in only two fatalities, likely due to the accurate and timely warnings issued by Met Éireann and the UK Met Office, and the public’s adherence to these warnings.
Secondly, the storm’s impact on the insurance sector was relatively moderate, despite the extensive area affected by high winds. This resilience is attributed to construction and roofing practices in Ireland and the northern UK, regions well-versed in countering strong winds and engineered to withstand windstorm impacts of this magnitude.”
