I also need data on property damage costs over the same time period. Why is that the trend? What has happened since 1900 to influence these results?

Much more property has been built in hurricane-prone areas since 1900.

Is there a website where I can find that info?

You might find what you need in some of these sites.

http://www.google.com/#sclient=psy&hl=en&source=hp&q=hurricane+damage+statistics+20th+century&pbx=1&oq=hurricane+damage+statistics+20th+century&aq=f&aqi=&aql=1&gs_sm=e&gs_upl=3158l8220l0l8780l13l13l0l0l0l0l234l2232l0.9.4l13&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.&fp=cae8a5964b14564c&biw=853&bih=564

http://oceanservice.noaa.gov/websites/retiredsites/sotc_pdf/POP.PDF

http://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/IOTD/view.php?id=7052

http://etc.usf.edu/maps/pages/7400/7493/7493.htm

To find data on property damage costs over a specific time period, you can follow these steps:

1. Choose a reliable source: Look for trustworthy sources such as government agencies, research organizations, or insurance companies. For example, the Insurance Information Institute (III) or the National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) provide data on property damage costs.

2. Go to the selected source's website: Visit the website of the chosen source.

3. Browse or search for data: Explore the website to find sections related to property damage costs or insurance claims. Look for reports, statistics, or datasets that cover the desired time period.

4. Narrow down the search: If available, specify the desired time range, location, or type of property damage you are interested in. This will help you find more accurate and relevant data.

5. Analyze the data: Once you have obtained the data, you can analyze it to identify any trends in property damage costs over time.

Now, regarding why there might be a trend in property damage costs over time and what has happened since 1900 to influence these results, it is important to consider various factors:

1. Population growth: As the population increases, so does the number of properties at risk from various hazards, resulting in higher property damage costs.

2. Urbanization: The expansion of cities and urban areas often leads to increased property values, which in turn can contribute to higher property damage costs.

3. Climate change: Changes in weather patterns, including an increase in extreme weather events such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires, can significantly impact property damage costs.

4. Economic growth: As societies become more affluent and economies grow, there is usually an increase in property values and the value of assets at risk, resulting in higher property damage costs.

5. Technological advancements: While advancements in construction and building materials have made structures more resilient, the increasing value and complexity of technology can also lead to higher property damage costs.

6. Insurance coverage: Changes in insurance policies, coverage availability, and deductibles can influence the amount of property damage costs borne by insurance companies and property owners.

By considering these and other factors, it becomes possible to understand the trends and influences on property damage costs over time.