Novidea released new survey findings that indicate widespread dissatisfaction with legacy insurance management technology and a near-term push to modernize. In its 2025-2026 report, Scaling for the Future: The State of Insurance Management Platforms, Novidea shares results from a survey of 200 global C-suite insurance leaders. The report focuses on how firms view their current core platforms, what changes they plan to make, and what obstacles stand in their way. It also details how leaders believe their platforms support artificial intelligence today.

Survey Shows Widespread Frustration With Legacy Platforms

The survey found that 95% of insurance professionals face “significant” challenges with their existing legacy core technology platforms. Data-related concerns ranked as the most pressing issues. Respondents cited data security and privacy as the top challenge at 35%, followed by data quality at 33%. Additionally, leaders highlighted high upgrade costs at 32% and high maintenance costs at 26%. They also reported integration difficulties at a rate of 25%.

Novidea described these results as evidence of an urgent need for technological modernization across the insurance industry. The company stated that the report is especially relevant for organizations planning to acquire a new core platform or replace modules in their current systems over the next one to three years.

Leaders Plan Near-Term Technology Change

Although leaders reported facing steep challenges, many also stated that they plan to take action. The survey found that 73% of insurance executives plan to upgrade their core insurance management technology within the next three years.

Among those leaders planning for change, the report revealed two primary approaches. First, 40% are considering a total “rip and replace” of their existing platform. Second, 60% prefer an incremental approach and plan to replace specific modules rather than the entire system.

Firms Target Specific Modules for Replacement

For leaders taking a module-by-module approach, the survey identified the areas most likely to change. Document management ranked as the top module targeted for replacement at 31%. Next, contract builder followed at 29%. Placing platform and claims management tied at 27% each. These results highlight the workflow areas that leaders perceive as most in need of modernization.

Change Projects Face Investment and Internal Barriers

The report also outlined the most prominent obstacles leaders face when trying to execute change projects. Respondents cited lack of investment in new technologies as the top barrier at 27%. Employee resistance to change followed at 23%.

Novidea added detail on where resistance appears most strongly. Of executives who identified employee resistance as a top barrier, most came from small and mid-sized insurance organizations. Only 15% of respondents from companies with more than 5,000 employees selected employee resistance as a leading issue.

Existing Processes Create Multiple Operational Issues

Nearly all respondents said their current processes create problems. Specifically, 99% reported multiple issues tied to existing workflows. The most frequently cited problems were analytical reporting and visualization, at 26%, and claims tracking, at 26%. These findings demonstrate that operational friction extends beyond the core platform itself and into daily work activities.

Survey Highlights Current AI Enablement

The report asked leaders whether their insurance management platform enables them to utilize AI benefits. In response, 71% said their platform enables them to benefit significantly from AI. Another 28% said they benefit somewhat. Only 1% reported no benefit.

The survey also found that larger insurance organizations derive greater value from AI capabilities than smaller firms, indicating that larger players tend to lead in AI integration. At the same time, the report stated that every organization, regardless of size, must maintain accurate data.

Novidea Perspective on Industry Modernization

Julie Shafiki, Chief Marketing Officer at Novidea, said the findings show the insurance industry at a major technological crossroads. She noted that many leaders recognize the need to modernize and are planning changes. However, she also noted that they face barriers, including concerns about system compatibility and internal resistance.

Shafiki stated that Novidea aims to reduce these pressures by offering a cloud-native, end-to-end insurance management platform with open APIs. She said the platform is designed to address common barriers to transformation and to bring value to customers as they grow their business.

Novidea has the full report available for download through its website.

Ryan Specialty, a leading international specialty insurance firm, has announced the completion of its acquisition of Stewart Specialty Risk Underwriting Ltd., also known as SSRU. SSRU is a managing general underwriter based in Toronto, Canada. It specializes in underwriting large-account, high-hazard property and casualty solutions. As a result of the acquisition, SSRU is now part of the Ryan Specialty Underwriting Managers division, or RSUM, within Ryan Specialty.

Ryan Specialty previously announced the acquisition on October 25, 2025. The later release confirms that the deal has moved from announcement to completion.

Background on SSRU and Its Market Position

In the earlier press release, Ryan Specialty said it had signed a definitive agreement to acquire SSRU. The company explained that Stephen Stewart founded SSRU in 2016. Since that time, SSRU has established itself as a Canadian MGU with expertise in manufacturing, utilities, real estate, construction, and oil and gas.

Ryan Specialty also stated that SSRU built a robust distribution network that includes many global retail brokers. In addition, SSRU has capabilities across all 13 Canadian provinces and territories. The press release noted that SSRU’s breadth of expertise and consistent underwriting results have attracted the backing of multiple A-rated carriers.

Leadership Statements About the Acquisition

Ryan Specialty shared comments from company leaders and from SSRU’s president and CEO. Pat Ryan, Founder and Executive Chairman of Ryan Specialty, said that Ryan Specialty is excited to welcome Stephen Stewart and the SSRU team. He described the transaction as strategic, and he said it expands Ryan Specialty’s capabilities in Canada. He also said the deal increases the total addressable market Ryan Specialty serves. In addition, he stated that the Ryan Specialty platform will enhance the value SSRU delivers to its clients and trading partners.

Tim Turner, CEO of Ryan Specialty, said SSRU is an exceptional organization with a proven track record of disciplined underwriting and strong broker relationships. He added that the acquisition allows Ryan Specialty to expand its Canadian market presence at scale. He also said the company is pleased to welcome Stephen Stewart and his team.

Miles Wuller, CEO of Ryan Specialty Underwriting Managers, said SSRU’s talent, underwriting acumen, and innovation align with RSUM’s commitment to offer carrier trading partners unique and high-quality insurance risks. He also stated that SSRU’s deep sector knowledge and national reach position RSUM to deliver a broader product offering into Canada. He added that RSUM looks forward to working with SSRU to deliver greater value to brokers, agents, and carriers across North America.

Stephen Stewart, President and CEO of SSRU, said joining Ryan Specialty Underwriting Managers marks a milestone for SSRU and for the Canadian specialty market. He said SSRU plans to bring its expertise to a broader platform while maintaining the independence and discipline that define its approach. He also stated that the partnership positions SSRU to grow responsibly and continue delivering for clients, brokers, and carrier trading partners across Canada.

Financial and Deal Information Provided

Ryan Specialty reported that SSRU generated approximately CAD $18 million of operating revenue for the 12 months ended September 30, 2025. The press release noted that this figure has not been audited. It also stated that, using current exchange rates, CAD $18 million equates to USD $13 million in operating revenue.

The company did not disclose the terms of the deal. However, it said the transaction was expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025. Ryan Specialty also stated that Marsh Berry served as exclusive financial advisor to SSRU.

About Ryan Specialty

Ryan Specialty was founded in 2010. It operates as a service provider of specialty products and solutions for insurance brokers, agents, and carriers. The firm provides distribution, underwriting, product development, administration, and risk management services. It acts as a wholesale broker and as a managing underwriter with delegated authority from insurance carriers.

Ryan Specialty stated that its mission is to provide industry-leading innovative specialty insurance solutions for insurance brokers, agents, and carriers.

About Ryan Specialty Underwriting Managers

Ryan Specialty Underwriting Managers is an industry leader in delegated authority underwriting services. Its family of MGUs and national programs has the expertise and authority to design, underwrite, bind, and administer a diverse portfolio of risks. RSUM said that its value proposition originates with more than 950 industry professionals. These professionals are supported by centralized technical support and policy lifecycle administration, along with a broad distribution network of retail and wholesale brokers.

RSUM stated that it has serviced clients and trading partners in North America, the UK, Europe, and Asia Pacific since its establishment in 2010.

Brownyard Group, a Specialty Program Insurance Manager headquartered in Bay Shore, New York, marked its 75th anniversary on December 3, 2025. The company paired this milestone with a renewed commitment to innovation and the launch of a fresh, new brand look. As it recognizes its long history in specialty insurance, Brownyard also emphasized its focus on adapting to industry needs and serving niche markets across the United States.

Celebrating a 75-Year Milestone

Brownyard Group President Tory Brownyard called the anniversary a rare achievement and highlighted the balance between honoring the past and preparing for the future. He said the company feels proud of its history and wants its refreshed brand to reflect reliability along with the ability to adapt to changing specialty insurance needs. This statement aligned with the company’s broader message that it continues to evolve while maintaining long-standing values.

Growth Alongside the Specialty Insurance Market

Over its 75 years, Brownyard grew from a single insurance program into a nationally recognized specialty insurance leader. The company built its reputation on deep industry expertise, specialized coverages, and strong service. During the same period, the specialty insurance market changed significantly. It moved from a niche offering to a vital part of the global insurance industry. Throughout this evolution, insurance agents remained trusted guides who helped clients understand and select policies. Brownyard described its own progress as keeping pace with these industry shifts. It said it leverages technological advancements to improve operational efficiency and to provide more extensive and personalized offerings.

A Legacy That Began in 1950

William (Bill) H. Brownyard founded the company in 1950. At the start, Brownyard introduced a groundbreaking insurance program for security professionals. The company described this program as the first of its kind in the nation. From that foundation, Brownyard expanded steadily. Today, Brownyard holds recognition as the longest-running, family-owned program administrator in the United States. It serves ten niche industries across all 50 states. These industries range from security services to cemeteries to beauty services, including both manufacturers and salons.

A Refreshed Brand and Digital Experience

To mark the anniversary, Brownyard introduced an updated visual identity. The company rolled out a refreshed logo, updated colors, and a new website. Brownyard said this new look reflects its rich history while also nodding toward the future. The redesigned website, brownyard.com, aims to deliver a more modern look and feel. In addition, the company said it creates a simpler user experience. Brokers and clients can use the site to explore programs, access resources, and request quotes.

About Brownyard Group

Brownyard Group operates as a national program administrator. It develops and provides specialized insurance programs for select industries. These industries include security, pest and wildlife control, alarm services, private investigation, cosmetics, lawn care, libraries, cemeteries, and the beauty industry. Since 1993, Brownyard has also operated Brownyard Claims Management. This in-house facility provides full-service claims handling and loss prevention resources. The company continues to operate from its headquarters in Bay Shore, New York.

The U.S. oncology market is expanding rapidly as cancer cases increase and healthcare providers adopt more advanced treatment approaches. The market size reached $72.79 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $81.34 billion in 2025. Current projections indicate that the market will grow to approximately $211.78 billion by 2034, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 11.75% from 2025 to 2034. This growth aligns with the increasing number of cancer diagnoses and the accelerating demand for personalized, effective therapies.

Multiple factors support this expansion. First, the incidence of cancer continues to increase, particularly among older adults. As a result, demand remains strong for oncology-related drugs, therapies, and long-term treatment solutions. At the same time, hospitals, clinics, and other oncology facilities are developing and adopting new technologies through an active research and development environment. Investment in precision medicine is also growing, which supports wider use of therapies tailored to genetic mutations or molecular markers. In addition, new targeted drug classes are entering the market, and a favorable regulatory environment helps accelerate commercialization through FDA-approved pathways and oncology programs. Moreover, expanded access to screening, improved diagnostic tools, and greater awareness of early detection continue to drive market momentum.

Treatment approaches are also shifting. Many organizations are moving away from standard drug therapies and toward innovative options that aim for greater accuracy and lower toxicity. For example, biologic drugs, such as monoclonal antibodies and monoclonal antibody conjugates, are experiencing broader adoption. Similarly, cellular and gene therapies, including CAR-T therapies, are gaining prominence in oncology care. Technology reinforces these shifts. Digital diagnostics, artificial intelligence tools for cancer screening, remote patient monitoring, and tech-supported evaluation of treatment outcomes are improving precision. Additionally, pharmaceutical companies and academic research organizations are working together more closely, which reduces the time required to move new cancer drugs through clinical trials and into clinical use.

However, the market faces a significant challenge. Novel personalized medicine therapies, including CAR-T treatments and long-course care, involve very high costs. Patients often carry substantial financial burdens even when third-party payers provide insurance coverage. Limited access to specialized treatment centers in rural or underserved regions also affects affordability and availability, creating obstacles to the broader use of next-generation solutions.

Regional performance shows apparent differences. The West led the U.S. oncology market in 2024, with a nearly 34% revenue share. Substantial biotechnology investment, supporting infrastructure, and dense pharmaceutical and research activity contribute to this leadership, with California and Washington recognized for clinical trials and collaboration in cancer innovation. Meanwhile, the South is expected to experience rapid growth during the forecast period. Expanding cancer care networks, population growth, improved healthcare facilities, stronger demand for early diagnosis, and rising demand for advanced treatment all support this trend. Efforts to build oncology capacity in Texas, Florida, and Georgia also reinforce growth in the region.

Several segments stand out. Breast cancer accounted for approximately 22% of the market in 2024. Targeted therapy accounted for nearly 28% of the revenue share, while monoclonal antibodies represented almost 30% of the market. Hospitals and cancer specialty centers dominated the end-user market with a share of around 48%, while hospital pharmacies led the distribution with about 41%. Looking ahead within the forecast period, leukemia is projected to be the fastest-growing cancer type, and immunotherapy, CAR-T cell therapies, gene therapies, academic and research institutions, and specialty pharmacies are expected to expand rapidly from 2025 to 2034.

The Baldwin Group announced on December 2, 2025, that it will buy rival insurance broker CAC Group in a $1.03 billion cash-and-stock deal. According to the company, this move continues a recent wave of large mergers in the U.S. insurance brokerage industry, where consolidation has accelerated.

AM Best revised its market segment outlook for the U.S. homeowners insurance segment to stable from negative, according to a new Best’s Market Segment Report titled “Market Segment Outlook: US Homeowners.” The company cited moderating premium growth and stronger catastrophe risk management practices, alongside improved conditions in the property reinsurance market, as key reasons for the change.

The report noted that catastrophe losses remained elevated in the first half of 2025. Even so, the homeowners segment showed resilience. AM Best pointed to the third quarter of 2025 as a notable break in catastrophe activity, describing it as exceptionally quiet for land-falling hurricanes. Despite that short-term lull, insurers continued to face high claim activity linked to extreme weather. The report also said that general economic and political uncertainty supported ongoing demand for homeowners coverage.

Premium growth remained robust in 2025, although AM Best noted that the pace slowed compared to the prior year. The report attributed growth to continued rate activity and expanded coverage demands. Carriers sought higher rates to maintain and preserve adequate pricing levels, particularly in light of inflationary pressures and broader macroeconomic factors. AM Best stated that material rate increases, combined with increased inflation guard factors, served as the main drivers behind premium growth across the segment.

Performance trends within the segment varied by carrier. Maurice Thomas, senior financial analyst at AM Best, said that better performers in homeowners insurance maintained solid risk-adjusted capitalization and enough liquidity. However, the report also found that some carriers operating in high-risk areas saw their capital cushions erode. Those declines resulted from material operating losses tied to severe events. AM Best highlighted recent impacts from January wildfires in California and severe tornado outbreaks nationwide during the first half of 2025.

In response to these pressures, carriers expanded their use of technology. The report stated that insurers became more effective at leveraging technology to enhance risk selection and support loss management and mitigation. Even with these operational improvements, carriers still faced higher underlying cost trends. AM Best described a “new norm” of elevated homebuilding and construction costs, which pushed loss costs upward. The report added that uncertainty around tariffs increased the potential for higher construction and repair costs. However, AM Best stated that no meaningful tariff impact had been reported to date.

The report also linked continued volatility and lingering market pressures to greater interest in merger and acquisition activity. AM Best said this interest was particularly notable for materially distressed companies.

On the reinsurance side, the report noted moderate softening in property catastrophe reinsurance rates during 2025. Thomas said January 2026 renewals should bring further stabilization or minor price shifts. At the same time, the report cautioned that primary carriers in catastrophe-prone states may see less relief relative to others. Overall, AM Best said improving reinsurance dynamics in 2025 helped reduce pressure on homeowners insurers and supported segment resilience. Nevertheless, the company emphasized that the segment remains inherently exposed to weather-related operating volatility.

AM Best will continue to review market conditions as we head into 2026. Leading analysts are scheduled to present 2026 market segment outlooks for major U.S. insurance industry segments. The online briefing is on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. EST.

AM Best operates as a global credit rating agency, news publisher, and data analytics provider focused on the insurance industry. The company is headquartered in the United States and operates in over 100 countries. It maintains regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Mexico City.

Taken together, the report framed 2025 as a year of ongoing catastrophe exposure, steady but slower premium expansion, and gradual improvement in reinsurance conditions.

Insurance customers feel most satisfied when they can complete claims digitally; yet, many still have to switch channels to finish the process. That is the core message of the J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Claims Digital Experience Study, released on December 2, 2025. The study reveals that digital apps and websites often meet expectations, but gaps persist in status updates and continuity throughout the claim journey.

Digital Claims Deliver the Highest Satisfaction

Over the past decade, auto and home insurers have encouraged customers to file claims, review estimates, and track progress through mobile apps and websites. The 2025 study finds that satisfaction scores are highest when customers manage the workflow digitally, from first notice of loss through estimates and ongoing updates. In other words, when customers can stay within digital tools, they report better experiences.

Mark Garrett, director of global insurance intelligence at J.D. Power, explains that digital management produces the strongest satisfaction results. However, he also notes that customers often need to move across channels for detailed explanations from claim representatives or to get status updates. As a result, insurers can improve satisfaction by anticipating what information customers will need and delivering it digitally before customers have to ask elsewhere.

Customers Want More Proactive Digital Updates

The study identifies proactive communication as one of the strongest drivers of satisfaction in digital claims experiences. Still, insurers provide adequate digital updates only 22% of the time. That shortfall matters because customers rely on clear, timely updates to understand where claims stand.

Kristen Coffin, digital solutions analyst at J.D. Power, reinforces this point. She says that although websites and apps largely meet expectations, customers still find themselves searching for information and repeating steps. She highlights a clear opportunity for insurers to deliver a more complete end-to-end digital experience that provides proactive information.

Apps Remain Underused for Status Updates

Customers report the highest satisfaction when they receive claim status updates through mobile apps. Even so, most customers do not get updates that way today.

• Only 36% of auto insurance customers receive status updates via insurer apps.
• Only 31% of homeowners insurance customers receive status updates via insurer apps.

Instead, many customers still rely on email, phone calls from claim staff, or text messages. This pattern shows that insurers have built digital tools that customers appreciate, but they do not yet use those tools consistently to communicate progress.

Many Customers Still Switch Channels

Despite industry efforts to promote digital-first claims, the study finds that a significant share of customers still use multiple channels to resolve a single issue. Specifically, 22% of customers rely on more than one channel to find answers to the same question.

This outcome reflects a disconnected experience. Customers may start a claim digitally, then call or email to clarify details, and later return to the app for another task. Each switch introduces friction, especially if customers must repeat information or retrace steps.

Digital Experience Shapes Loyalty

The study also links digital performance to customer retention. Customers who feel dissatisfied with digital claims processes show a much higher likelihood of leaving their insurer.

• Among customers who rate their digital claim experience as “poor” or “just OK,” 52% say they are likely to leave or not renew.
• Among customers who rate the experience as “excellent” or “perfect,” only 4% say they are at risk of attrition.

These numbers show that digital claims experiences connect directly to loyalty. When customers view digital tools as effective and supportive, they are far more likely to stay with their insurer.

How the 2025 Study Was Conducted

J.D. Power redesigned the U.S. Claims Digital Experience Study for 2025. Because of that redesign, overall satisfaction scores do not compare to prior years. The updated study focuses on property and casualty insurance customers and evaluates digital channels across the claims process.

The study measures digital experiences through four factors, listed in order of importance:

• Range of services
• Ease of using the channels
• Clarity of information
• Helpfulness of the channels

Researchers gathered 5,958 evaluations from auto and home insurance customers who completed a claim in the past nine months. That sample size is nearly double previous years. J.D. Power fielded the study from December 2024 through August 2025.

About J.D. Power

J.D. Power describes itself as a global leader in consumer insights, advisory services, data, and analytics. The company has used big data, artificial intelligence, and algorithmic modeling to study consumer behavior for more than 55 years. Businesses across major industries use J.D. Power research to guide customer-facing strategies. The company operates offices in North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific.

Key Takeaway

The J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Claims Digital Experience Study finds a clear pattern. Customers value fully digital claims management and report the strongest satisfaction when they can stay within apps and websites. At the same time, many customers still need to switch channels because they do not receive enough proactive digital updates, and apps remain underutilized for status communication. Finally, the study reveals that digital claims quality directly correlates with customer loyalty, with significant differences in attrition risk based on how customers rate their experience.

Consumer Reports delivered a petition with 44,532 signatures on December 2, 2025, urging major home insurance companies to adopt stronger consumer protections. The petition targets 28 of the nation’s largest homeowners insurance groups and asks them to strengthen fairness and transparency at a time when many homeowners face rising premiums, unexpected cancellations, and fewer coverage options.

Why Consumer Reports Delivered the Petition

Consumer Reports (CR) says homeowners across the United States are dealing with steep premium increases, sudden non-renewals, and confusion about coverage. Sara Enright, CR’s senior director of safety and sustainability, stated that homeowners are seeing “skyrocketing premiums,” abrupt non-renewals, and uncertainty about what policies cover. She said that baseline protections would help consumers stay informed, stay safer, and become more resilient when disasters occur.

CR also said it has already held constructive conversations with insurers and industry associations. CR expects to continue this engagement and believes that insurers who adopt the proposed protections would strengthen trust, retain policyholders, and support long-term market stabilization.

The Homeowners Insurance Bill of Rights

The petition calls on major insurers, including State Farm, Allstate, USAA, Liberty Mutual, and Farmers, to adopt CR’s Homeowners Insurance Bill of Rights. CR developed this Bill of Rights with input from insurance experts, academics, and homeowners. It includes nine baseline protections that CR describes as a basic standard of fairness.

CR asks insurers to provide the following protections:

• A clear, plain-language explanation of what is and is not covered before purchase or renewal.
• Transparency about which risk factors insurers use to determine eligibility and set rates.
• Fair access to coverage based on property risk, not a homeowner’s finances.
• Adequate notice before cancellations, nonrenewals, or steep premium hikes.
• Meaningful incentives for homeowners who take steps to harden their homes.
• Protections against cancellations or non-renewals after declared States of Emergency.
• Freedom from penalties for inquiries or claims that result in no payout.
• Prompt, full, and fair claim payments, with accountability for delays.
• Immediate financial assistance for emergency housing and essential needs after a disaster, with limited paperwork.

What CR Reports About the Current Market

CR points to multiple pressures that it says have destabilized the home insurance market. These pressures include extreme weather, inflation, and rising construction costs. CR says these conditions have led to rate hikes, shrinking coverage, unexpected cancellations, and limited options for consumers seeking better coverage.

CR also cited findings from its 2024 to 2025 survey of 23,917 U.S. home insurance policyholders. According to the survey, more than half of respondents saw their premiums increase in the past year. Some reported costs that doubled or even tripled. In addition, nine percent said insurers dropped their coverage.

CR added that it collected nearly 600 consumer stories. In those stories, homeowners described abrupt policy changes, unexpected costs, and difficulty finding reliable alternatives.

CR says the petition delivered on December 2 reflects broad consumer support for a more stable marketplace and stronger protections for policyholders.

Call for Consistent Protections Across States

CR states that some states offer strong consumer protections, but inconsistency across the country leaves millions of homeowners vulnerable. CR testified last week before a joint New York State Senate hearing focused on rising premiums and shrinking access to coverage. During that testimony, CR urged lawmakers to strengthen oversight and adopt policies that ensure greater transparency, fairness, and stability.

CR says it wants to work with the insurance industry to adopt these baseline standards. CR also wants policymakers to codify them in laws and regulations so that every policyholder receives the same fair treatment regardless of where they live.

A quick-hitting winter storm is adding to travel and snow-removal challenges on the first day of December across parts of the central United States that were buried over the weekend. As the system moves east, it is expected to strengthen rapidly into a bomb cyclone while tracking up the East Coast toward Atlantic Canada. This evolution is set to bring the first widespread snow and ice of the season to parts of the Northeast on Tuesday.

Meteorologists define a bomb cyclone as a storm that strengthens rapidly, measured by a pressure drop of at least 24 millibars in 24 hours. This rapid intensification can increase storm threats, especially wind. Along coastal New England, conditions are expected to turn gusty as the system deepens.

Although major cities along the Northeast I-95 corridor appear likely to avoid significant snowfall, forecast guidance indicates more substantial snow accumulation farther inland.

Winter Weather Alerts Span From the Plains to Maine

Winter weather alerts are in effect for nearly 70 million people, stretching from the Plains to Maine as the storm treks east. Snow and ice are already underway in parts of the Central Plains and are expected to spread through the Midwest, southern Great Lakes, and Ohio Valley through Monday night.

On Monday morning, light snow was falling in parts of Nebraska and Kansas. At the same time, freezing rain extended as far south as Oklahoma. This mix of wintry precipitation is arriving in areas that are still dealing with the impacts of a major post-Thanksgiving winter storm over the weekend.

Midwest and Great Lakes Face Another Round of Snow

The system is forecast to bring anywhere from a fresh dusting to a few more inches of snow in Midwest and Great Lakes cities that recently experienced record-snowy conditions. Chicago, Madison, Wisconsin, and Springfield, Illinois, are among the locations that saw their record-snowiest November day on Saturday. The new storm will add additional accumulation on top of what already fell.

For insurers and insurance professionals monitoring regional conditions, the combination of fresh snow and lingering impacts from the weekend storm highlights the continued presence of winter-season hazards across the central U.S., including snow load, ice, and transportation disruption.

Northeast Sees First Widespread Snow and Ice of the Season

By Tuesday morning, the storm is expected to arrive in the East, bringing the first significant wintry event of the season to parts of New England and the mid-Atlantic. Interior areas of the Northeast are likely to see impacts during the Tuesday morning commute. These locations include Pittsburgh as well as Albany and Buffalo, New York.

In contrast, New York City, Philadelphia, Boston, and Washington, DC, could see snow at the start of Tuesday. However, forecasts indicate that snow in these cities will likely transition to rain before accumulations become substantial.

The highest snowfall totals in the Northeast are expected in:

• Northeast Pennsylvania
• The upper Hudson Valley of eastern New York
• Western and central Massachusetts
• The southern halves of Vermont and New Hampshire
• Eastern Maine

Some locations in these regions could receive 6 inches or more of snowfall.

Ice Risks Along the Appalachians

Just south of the heaviest snow band, warmer air sliding over cold ground is expected to create pockets of freezing rain along the Central and Southern Appalachians. Even a thin glaze of ice in higher elevations of Virginia and North Carolina could be enough to trigger travel problems or cause scattered power outages.

From an industry perspective, these ice-related hazards are notable because they align with the storm’s stated threats: difficult travel conditions and interruptions tied to potential power loss.

Heavy Rain, Thunderstorms, and Flooding Potential in the South

On the storm’s warmer side, widespread rain and a few thunderstorms are expected across the South. Localized flash flooding is possible from the northern Gulf Coast through central and northern Georgia.

This portion of the system represents the non-winter side of the same event, with rainfall-driven hazards developing simultaneously while snow and ice affect regions farther north.

Arctic Air Follows the Storm

December marks the start of meteorological winter, which runs through February. Temperatures across much of the central and northern U.S. are already in the teens and 20s on Monday, allowing new snow and ice to accumulate on top of existing coverage. Gusty winds will make conditions feel even colder.

After the system exits, forecasters expect colder air to deepen further. A fresh surge of Arctic air is forecast to spill across the central and eastern U.S. late in the week. This push is likely to bring the lowest temperatures of the season so far. Some areas across the Plains, Midwest, and interior Northeast could approach daily record lows on Thursday and Friday.

Looking ahead, meteorologists note that the upcoming Arctic blast could preview additional cold later in December, tied to a disruption of the polar vortex.

Key Takeaway for Insurance Professionals

This storm system is expected to produce a broad range of weather hazards across multiple regions, including:

• Additional snow in areas recently hit by historic November accumulation
• Significant inland snowfall in the Northeast
• Freezing rain and ice impacts along the Appalachians
• Heavy rain, thunderstorms, and localized flash flooding in the South
• A follow-on Arctic air surge with potentially record-challenging lows

As the event unfolds from Monday into Tuesday and beyond, insurance industry stakeholders may want to track evolving conditions and regional alerts closely, given the storm’s wide footprint and mixed precipitation profile described by forecasters.

The Trump administration has proposed a new Environmental Protection Agency regulation that would narrow the scope of the Clean Water Act by redefining “waters of the United States” (WOTUS). The proposal appeared in the Federal Register on November 20, 2025, and it has not been finalized or implemented. Environmental groups say the change would reduce protections for many waterways, which they argue could increase water pollution and flood risk across the country.

What The Clean Water Act Does

The Clean Water Act is a federal law from 1972 focused on reducing water pollution. It requires the EPA to set pollution limits, establish water quality standards, and manage permitting for facilities that discharge waste into waterways. It also requires states to run plans for measuring and maintaining water quality.

Under the act, it is illegal to discharge pollutants from a point source into waters of the United States without an EPA permit. A point source is any distinct outlet that releases pollutants. This includes intentional discharge sites like pipes and ditches, and also unintentional sources such as sewage overflows and leaks.

Many industries rely on facilities that count as point source dischargers. Examples include oil and gas companies, home builders, mining operations, and factory farms. Factory farms are described as the largest source of water pollution in the country.

Why WOTUS Definitions Matter

Because the Clean Water Act does not define “waters of the United States,” administrations and courts have reshaped the meaning over time. The definition controls which waterways fall under federal pollution limits and permitting rules.

A key recent shift came from the Supreme Court case Sackett v. EPA. The Court ruled that the act applies to streams, oceans, rivers, and lakes. Other waters, including wetlands, receive protection only if they have continuous or standing flow or a surface connection to those waters, or if they significantly affect the integrity of downstream navigable, interstate, or territorial waters. The EPA revised its WOTUS definition in 2023 to match that ruling.

The new Trump administration proposal would replace the 2023 regulation and narrow protections further. It also adds stricter requirements for some waterways, including streams, to qualify for coverage.

What The Proposed Rule Changes

The regulation is described as technically complex and 49 pages long. In practice, it tightens what counts as WOTUS and therefore what receives Clean Water Act protection.

One major element is the introduction of a “wet season” standard. Under this approach, many waterways would qualify only if they flow continuously during the wet season. Haley Gentry of the Tulane Institute on Water Resources Law and Policy notes that “wet season” is not a defined legal term and varies widely across regions and even within the same region. She also points out that precipitation and drought patterns shift year to year, which makes a single national definition difficult.

Royal Gardner of Stetson University adds that timing issues could leave some streams unprotected. Some streams start flowing midway through a wet season and continue into the next season. Even if they flow continuously for months, they might not qualify if that flow does not occur entirely within the wet season.

The proposal also raises inclusion standards for certain features that have typically been protected. Waste treatment facilities, ditches, and prior converted cropland — former wetlands drained for agriculture — would need to meet more specific requirements to qualify.

In addition, the proposal clarifies that groundwater is not subject to Clean Water Act regulations. This is described as a small change because groundwater has not usually been covered anyway. The proposal also removes language that automatically covered interstate waters.

Potential Environmental And Insurance-Related Effects

Reducing the number of waterways under Clean Water Act protections means more water pollution could occur. Water pollution can damage plants, animals, living organisms, and ecosystems. The World Health Organization estimates that more than half a million people die each year from drinking microbiologically contaminated water.

Gentry also says the proposal would increase flood risk. Wetlands help prevent floods. One study estimates that each hectare of wetlands in the United States prevents between $1,840 and $8,000 in flood damage. Wetlands also store carbon and help mitigate climate change. If wetlands lose federal protection, they could face long-term degradation that reduces both flood prevention and carbon storage.

From an insurance standpoint, Gentry adds that higher flood risk in some areas could lead to higher flood insurance costs for some Americans, tied to the loss of wetlands and related protections.

Rulemaking Timeline And Next Steps

The proposed regulation is still moving through the rulemaking process. Public comments are open until January 5, 2026. After that, the EPA may issue a final version if it chooses to proceed. Federal law requires the final text to be posted for at least 30 days before enactment.

Gardner notes that the proposed rule asks for public input on multiple approaches. He expects those comments to influence the final version. He also says he does not expect the final regulation to become more protective than the proposal.

Broader Regulatory Context

The proposal highlights the significant influence that presidential administrations have over environmental regulation through their interpretation. Although the Sackett decision narrowed Clean Water Act coverage, the Biden administration’s 2023 interpretation was more protective than this new proposal.

Because WOTUS definitions can be rewritten, a future administration could issue another rule that supersedes this one, just as this proposal would supersede the 2023 regulation.

Realtor.com economists recently analyzed the 100 largest U.S. metro areas to see where typical home values grew the most between October 2019 and October 2025. The results show that, despite slower price growth in many markets recently, a small set of metros still recorded major rises over this six-year span.

The ranking highlights what Realtor.com describes as unexpected boomtowns. These places did not match the profile of long-standing high-cost coastal markets. Instead, they experienced sharp increases during a period that began before the pandemic and continued through more recent market shifts.

The 10 Metros With the Largest Increases

Realtor.com listed the following metros as the biggest gainers in typical home value from October 2019 to October 2025:

1. Knoxville, TN — up nearly 86%
2. Fayetteville, AR — up 84.5%
3. Charleston, SC — up 81.3%
4. Scranton, PA — up 78.4%
5. Syracuse, NY — up 77.6%
6. Portland, ME — up 75.7%
7. Rochester, NY — up 75.2%
8. New Haven, CT — up 73.8%
9. Charlotte, NC — up 73.1%
10. Chattanooga, TN — up 72.9%

Knoxville led the list. Realtor.com reports that typical home values there rose by almost 86%, which equals about $190,000 in added value over the period.

What Drove These Increases

The article points to several factors behind the growth in these metros. First, pandemic-era migration and remote work patterns increased demand in smaller and mid-sized markets that had previously been more affordable. As people moved from higher-cost areas, demand rose quickly.

Second, these metros faced supply challenges. The article explains that local housing stock did not expand fast enough to match demand, and this imbalance supported higher values across the six-year window.

Third, Realtor.com notes that many of the metros combine employment opportunities with lifestyle appeal. That mix helped sustain buyer interest over time.

Market Context Since 2019

Realtor.com also connects these long-term gains to the broader national picture. It explains that home price growth has cooled in many parts of the country. Higher mortgage rates, affordability pressures, and an increase in the number of homes available have reduced demand compared to the peak pandemic years.

Even so, these 10 metros remained leaders in cumulative growth since 2019. Additionally, the list is divided evenly by region. Five of the top metros are in the South, and five are in the Northeast. This regional balance indicates that the most substantial appreciation since 2019 has not concentrated in any one area of the United States.

Why Insurance Professionals Are Watching These Markets

For insurance industry audiences, the ranking provides a clear view of where property values have grown fastest since 2019. Rapid appreciation can significantly impact insured values over time, particularly in areas where typical home values have increased by more than 70%.

Because this analysis spans October 2019 through October 2025, it captures a full cycle that includes pre-pandemic conditions, pandemic-driven demand shifts, and the more recent slowdown tied to rates and affordability. As a result, it offers a way to track where value growth is concentrated during a major housing period.

Key Takeaway

Realtor.com’s review of the nation’s largest metros shows that 10 markets posted the biggest typical home value booms from October 2019 to October 2025. Knoxville, Fayetteville, and Charleston top the list, and the overall ranking divides evenly between Southern and Northeastern metros. Although national growth has moderated due to higher mortgage rates, affordability issues, and increased inventory, these markets still stand out for sustained long-term gains since 2019.