Tornadoes Rip Through Several States

Strong storms have contributed to almost 50 deaths in the Midwest and Southeast United States.

In what North Carolina governor Beverly Perdue called "the most catastrophic damage I've ever seen," tornadoes and hail ripped across 14 states over the weekend.

North Carolina was the hardest hit state, with 22 of the reported 45 deaths. And once again this year, online image galleries feature totally destroyed structures and cars.

Early claims estimates are trickling in. In South Carolina, claims are expected to be around $45 million. Texas could near $100 million.

We'll be monitoring the aftereffects of these storms over the course of the week.

Nathan Golia is senior editor of Insurance & Technology. He joined the publication in 2010 as associate editor and covers all aspects of the nexus between insurance and information technology, including mobility, distribution, core systems, customer interaction, and risk ... View Full Bio