What special challenges do adjusters face when handling catastrophe (CAT) claims after a major disaster?

Catastrophe (CAT) claims — arising from events like hurricanes, wildfires, floods, or major storms — present special challenges: a sudden surge in claim volume, widespread and often severe damage, difficult or dangerous site access, strained resources, and the need to deploy many adjusters (often independent or catastrophe adjusters) quickly. Adjusters must still investigate, document, and settle each claim fairly and promptly despite the strain, while managing large caseloads. Special procedures, advance payments, and triage are often used. Understanding the demands of catastrophe claims handling — high volume and severity under difficult conditions — is standard content for the adjuster exam.