Richard Ward says exposures are "in line with expectations".

Lloyd’s has announced its provisional loss estimate for Hurricanes Gustav and Ike.

In line with analysts’ estimates of an aggregate $20-25 billion industry loss, it is expected that Lloyd’s will face net claims of $2.34 billion/£1.3 billion. This covers on and offshore claims across both windstorms.

Based on current estimates there will be a negligible impact on Lloyd's capital and no Central Fund exposure.

Lloyd’s CEO Richard Ward said: “While industry losses from Hurricanes Gustav and Ike are likely to exceed initial forecasts, the claims to Lloyd's will be manageable and in the normal course of business.

"These exposures are in line with expectations and reflect our strong competitive position in the lines of business affected. The market is well positioned to respond to these claims and our strength continues to be underpinned by the effective risk management techniques in place across the market, our strongest ever Central Fund and stable ratings."

“Clearly these hurricanes have had a significant impact on the coastal and inland communities of the Southern US states and our priority remains assessing and settling claims as quickly as possible to help rebuild the area."

Lloyds said It will not be possible, for some time, to have a precise view of the ultimate insured loss as the full extent of the damage is still unknown and the loss is ongoing.