The latest Australian Actuaries Climate Index charts the record-breaking summer conditions that led to one of the worst disaster seasons on record, with insured losses of at least $4.6 billion caused by fire, floods and hail.

The index, released today, says records were smashed throughout the summer for extreme high temperatures and consecutive dry days.

Meanwhile, Greater Sydney dam levels rose from historically low levels at 44.1%, to 64% capacity in a single day.

Not a single region experienced below average extreme high temperatures, and seven out of the 12 regional clusters set records, the index says.

“In addition to extreme high temperatures, significant dryness was also observed, with Australia setting a record for consecutive dry days.

“NSW was particularly affected by these conditions. The East Coast South region, which includes Sydney, experienced not only the highest value for consecutive dry days, but also the second highest value for extreme high temperature.

“These hot and dry conditions, coupled with wind that facilitated the spread of fire, led to NSW having 81% of Australia’s total general insurance claims for the period. NSW also suffered 25 of the 34 fatalities recorded nationally.”

The index also reflects the damaging East Coast Low storms that hit the eastern parts of Australia in late January with severe rain, wind and hail.

“The East Coast South region saw the fifth highest extreme rainfall value ever. A record was also set for extreme wind. The hail and East Coast Low caused approximately $1.4 billion and $0.8 billion of damage respectively, with significant losses for both home and motor vehicles.

“The ACT experienced 57% of all claims for the period, while NSW and VIC were also badly damaged.”

Click here to see the index.