Farms.com Home   News

2024 Crop Losses Rise Amid Extreme Weather

Feb 19, 2025
By Farms.com

Drought, Hurricanes, and Flooding Damage U.S. Farms

In 2024, extreme weather events caused over $20.3 billion in crop losses across the U.S., significantly impacting the agricultural sector. Severe drought, hurricanes, and excessive rainfall devastated crops and rangeland, leaving many farmers struggling to recover.

According to estimates, the Risk Management Agency (RMA) covered $10.9 billion of the losses, while approximately $9.4 billion remained uninsured or outside coverage limits. Crop insurance played a vital role in reducing financial burdens, covering over 53% of damages.

Drought, excessive heat, and wildfires led to over $11 billion in losses, while flooding and hurricanes caused $6.7 billion in damage. Corn and forage crops were the most affected, with losses exceeding $3.85 billion and $3.8 billion, respectively. Cotton and soybeans also suffered, with damages amounting to $2.5 billion and $3.2 billion.

Texas experienced the highest losses at $3.4 billion, mainly due to drought. Minnesota and California followed, with significant damages from flooding and heat-related events. "The number of weather-related disasters continues to grow, impacting farmers across the nation," experts noted.

Hurricanes Helene and Milton caused billions in agricultural losses across the Southeast. Georgia, Florida, and Louisiana suffered heavy damages in crops like peanuts, cotton, and sugarcane. Nationwide, hurricanes contributed to more than $3 billion in losses.

Despite federal relief efforts, uncovered losses from 2022 to 2024 exceeded $26 billion. The 2025 American Relief Act allocated $21 billion in disaster aid, but gaps remain. Farmers continue to face financial uncertainty, emphasizing the need for timely relief and better risk management strategies.


Trending Video

How Dr. Allen Williams' Regenerative Agriculture Can Save Our Planet—And Your Farm!

Video: How Dr. Allen Williams' Regenerative Agriculture Can Save Our Planet—And Your Farm!

Discover the groundbreaking insights of Dr. Allen Williams as he delves into the world of regenerative agriculture. In this video, Dr. Williams explains how prioritizing soil health and biodiversity can lead to sustainable farming practices that benefit both the environment and your farm. Learn how adaptive management, crop diversity, and livestock integration can not only boost your farm’s productivity but also play a crucial role in saving our planet.