The authors discuss the reasons for the dramatic increase since 1989 in insured losses from natural disasters and the concern that insurers have about their ability to provide coverage against more such events in the future. The book addresses why there has been an increasing demand for hazard insurance, what types of coverage private insurers are willing to offer, and the role of reinsurance and private/public-sector initiatives at the state and federal levels for providing protection to victims of natural disasters.

Detailed case studies of the challenges facing Florida in the wake of Hurricane Andrew in 1992 and California following the Northridge earthquake in 1994 reveal the challenges facing the insurance industry as well as other concerned stakeholders. The National Flood Insurance Program illustrates how a public/private-sector partnership can mitigate damages and provide financial protection to victims. This volume identifies new initiatives for reducing future losses and providing funds for recovery through cooperation by the relevant parties.