Lessons in managing large-scale events
Large Scale Events (LSEs), whether driven by extreme weather or technological incidents, require rapid mobilisation, clear governance and the ability to scale resources without compromising customer service.
McLarens affiliate, Alkera, has developed a structured approach to managing these events, combining local expertise, flexible resourcing and technology to deliver a coordinated response. The handling of Storms Nils and Pedro in February 2026 illustrates how preparation and operational agility can make a measurable difference when claim volumes surge.
Preparing before the event
Managing an LSE begins long before the first claim is reported. Alkera’s nationwide network of 94 offices enables local teams to be deployed immediately following an event, while 18 reinforcement adjusters remain on standby each week, ready to support affected regions at short notice. These field teams are complemented by remote adjusters and specialist support functions, creating a flexible operating model capable of responding to significant fluctuations in demand.
This ability to scale resources rapidly is supported by a dedicated governance structure. A National LSE Steering Committee coordinates operational decision-making, allocates reinforcement resources and maintains close communication with insurers throughout the event. Technology also plays an important role, with synchronised digital tools enabling real-time information sharing and efficient field operations.
A real-world test
That model was tested during Storms Nils and Pedro, which swept across France in February 2026.
The storms generated an estimated 35,000 claims—more than previous major storms such as Ciarán and Domingos—and caused widespread wind and flood damage across several regions. Strong winds damaged homes, transport infrastructure and electricity networks, while significant flooding left communities isolated and disrupted access across affected areas.
To respond, Polyexpert, part of the Alkera Group, implemented an unprecedented mobilisation, deploying more than 330 cumulative weeks of reinforcement from adjusters across France. Two months after the event, more than 80% of loss adjuster reports had already been delivered, with an average turnaround time of just over 21 days despite the exceptional claim volumes.
Governance under pressure
Large-scale events are as much a logistical challenge as a technical one.
Throughout the response, regular coordination calls enabled operational priorities to be adjusted as conditions evolved, while claims were allocated according to capacity and policyholder needs. Centralised governance ensured resources could be redirected quickly without disrupting service delivery, allowing local teams to focus on supporting customers on the ground.
This combination of local autonomy and national oversight enabled Alkera to maintain high levels of operational performance throughout the event. By mid-April, contact rates had reached almost 100%, appointment scheduling exceeded 99%, and more than 95% of appointments had been completed.
Balancing speed with quality
Responding quickly is only one measure of success during a catastrophe.
Maintaining technical quality while processing tens of thousands of claims requires robust processes and flexible deployment of expertise. Alkera’s operating model combines remote assessment with on-site inspection, ensuring resources are used proportionately while maintaining consistent technical standards.
This approach helps accelerate claims handling without sacrificing quality or customer experience, allowing insurers to maintain service levels even when claim volumes increase dramatically.
Lessons for insurers
The experience of Storms Nils and Pedro demonstrates that successful Large Scale Event management depends on preparation before the event, flexible resource deployment, strong governance and clear communication throughout the claims lifecycle.
By combining nationwide coverage, scalable resources, digital coordination and structured operational oversight, Alkera was able to maintain service standards despite handling one of France’s largest recent catastrophe events. As climate-related losses continue to challenge the insurance market, those capabilities will become increasingly central to effective claims management.
