The recent hurricanes, Helene and Milton, have pushed insurance programs to the brink, and banks around the world are making only limited progress in preparing for climate costs. According to a recent report from Climate X, 88% of banks are unprepared for climate-related disruptions—and four of the five least prepared banks are U.S.-based.

“Our research shows that, despite increasing awareness, many banks are still falling short in implementing robust climate adaptation strategies, said Lukky Ahmed, CEO of Climate X. “It is vital that banks incorporate adaptation into their strategic decision-making processes and develop products and services that support resilience.”

What can you do? Start by asking your local bank branch manager about their institution’s disaster planning and how it will provide access to cash and credit in the wake of an extreme weather event. If they don’t know, demand they find out and share the details. It will send a message, that you expect the bank to prepare for the worst impacts of the climate crisis.

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