Catastrophe Models

JBA was the first to offer probabilistic catastrophe modelling for flood risk on a truly global scale. Today, we still lead the field, using the latest science to assess both current and future climate risks. Our expertise extends beyond flood. We're now applying our cutting-edge methodologies to develop models in other areas of catastrophe risk.

At JBA, we’ve developed a cutting-edge methodology that enables probabilistic flood modelling for any location in the world, for current day and climate change scenarios. Our revolutionary approach means you can adjust model data, parameters, and assumptions for a more complete understanding of your flood risk exposure.

Utilising the latest science and research, JBA catastrophe models help you to understand the frequency, severity and spatial correlations of flood risk across the entire risk transfer chain. With our unparalleled expertise in flood risk science and cutting-edge methodologies, we’re leading the way in catastrophe modelling innovation and expanding our capabilities beyond flood.

We currently offer a leading multi-peril crop model for India, helping global re/insurers manage risks from extreme weather events. And in the US, we’re collaborating with Applied Research Associates to create a correlated wind and flood model, recognising the compound effects of wind, storm surge, extreme rainfall, and flooding.

We’re committed to finding the right solution for every client. Our bespoke consultancy services provide tailored guidance to ensure you get the best catastrophe modelling approach for your unique needs.

Flood risk visualisation over residential area with global overlay, highlighting exposure and asset distribution.

Flood catastrophe modelling with a difference

JBA offers best-in-class probabilistic flood models for countries across the world showing both current and future risk. Underpinned by our market-leading flood maps and global event sets, and latest climate change science, JBA flood catastrophe models challenge the limitations of traditional flood catastrophe modelling.

Region-specific insights for relevant flood risk analysis

Our software is uniquely designed to consider the local-level detail that can significantly impact flood outcomes in large-scale country or regional analyses. This approach also enables us to incorporate the best possible data for any location and offers our clients the flexibility to add additional data that they might want to be considered.

Each JBA flood model is created by accessing data that is directly relevant to the region or country or portfolio of interest. The benefits of this capability are:

Data updates can be incorporated efficiently into the model
You can create ‘what-if’ scenarios to support, challenge and sense-vet your decision-making
The model can be customised to best match the analysed exposure
And if you don’t want to customise the model to your own view of risk you can simply use the recommended model view provided by JBA

Digital globe with connected data points, representing global network and catastrophe model connectivity.

Resolution

We offer the highest resolution models worldwide with 5m resolution in the US, UK, Republic of Ireland, Continental Europe and Australia and 30m resolution in all other areas.

Uses

Reinsurance pricing
Assessing capital requirements
Accumulation control
Planning and portfolio management

Access

All our flood models are Oasis-enabled and incorporate cutting-edge JBA analysis techniques specific to high-resolution flood modelling in the Oasis platform. They can be accessed via ELEMENTS by Impact Forecasting, Moody’s Intelligent Risk Platform™ (IRP), Verisk's Model Exchange platform, or directly in the Oasis software for users with in-house installations. Portfolio analyses can also be obtained from JBA on a consultancy service basis.

Oasis-enabled flood model over Lismore with digital circuit board overlay, showing model integration.

Climate Change

Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of flood events, creating heightened risks for communities and businesses worldwide. We understand how vital it is to consider these changes when assessing flood risk, which is why we integrate the latest climate change insights into our catastrophe models.

Suburban street flooded with water, showing partially submerged cars and homes under a blue sky with scattered clouds.

Global Event Sets

Our models are underpinned by our Global Flood Event Set. This dataset consists of over 15 million events and utilises a unique combination of sophisticated statistical and physical modelling methods.

India Crop Model

The JBA India Crop Model is an advanced probabilistic tool designed to support risk management and insurance pricing for India’s two primary crop insurance schemes, the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) and the Restructured Weather-Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS). Developed by JBA Risk Management in collaboration with industry leaders, this model employs a unique physical crop simulation approach, offering a thorough and realistic assessment of potential losses due to extreme weather events across Indian states and districts.

Lush green valley with a river, forested hills, and visible crop fields in the foreground under a partly cloudy sky.

Data
The largest and most comprehensive data suite available for understanding current and future flood risk anywhere in the world.
Data
Parametric
Globally consistent high-resolution flood data to profile risk, enable anticipatory action, and identify triggers and monitor thresholds for parametric insurance.
Parametric
Portfolio Analysis
Customised analysis services leveraging JBA's advanced probabilistic flood models to provide insights into portfolio risk.
Portfolio Analysis
Consultancy
Bespoke solutions and consultancy including tailored model builds, single site assessments, flood defence design and portfolio optimisation.
Consultancy