Preliminary estimates for insured losses in FloridafromHurricane Wilma could range from $2 billion to $6 billion,according to Eqecat, Inc., the Oakland, Calif.-based catastrophemodeler.

The firm said it based its estimate upon landfall wind speeds of125 miles per hour, following information provided by the NationalOceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Beyond wind damage to commercial and residential fixedstructures==such as office buildings, factories, warehouses, andhomes==Eqecat's insured loss estimates include businessinterruption, which covers loss of earnings as a result of thedestruction of property.

It also includes "demand surge," which occurs when the demandfor products and services to repair damages significantly exceedsthe regional supply.

The company noted that such products and services may have to bebrought to the region quickly from distant points, resulting inadditional costs for transportation, packaging andmanufacturing.

Eqecat said its current estimates excluded insured lossesrelated to offshore platforms, commercial flooding, private andcommercial automobiles and similar vehicles, as well as marineassets, such as boats.