Unique features of tropical cyclones in Southeast China can help examine wind profile

What is it about?

Tropical cyclones (TCs) are one of the most destructive weather phenomena. They are marked by strong surface winds and heavy rainfall. Of these, landfalling TCs start in the water and move to the land. All of China’s coastal areas are affected by landfalling TCs. They cause a lot of damage to infrastructure. There are about seven to nine cyclones in Southeast China each year. The intensity of cyclones is increasing due to global warming. To design wind resistant supertall buildings, it is imperative to assess the wind load effects of TC. Design wind speed profiles play a crucial role in determining wind load on supertall buildings. These are profiles built based on the wind pressure that a building may face. This helps architects design buildings that can withstand a wide range of climate and weather scenarios. In this study, the authors examine wind profiles of typhoons reaching a 1000 m height over the coast of Southeast China. They propose a TC wind profile model to determine the wind load design for supertall buildings. They consider the features of low level jets, or fast moving air ribbons in the lower atmosphere.

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Photo by CreateTravel.tv on Unsplash

Photo by CreateTravel.tv on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Common wind speed profiles do not consider the unique features of TC. This may lead to incorrect estimation of critical wind effects. The proposed profile overcomes these issues by considering low level jet features. It can be used to determine the design of wind loads on supertall buildings in coastal urban areas of China. KEY TAKEAWAY: In Southeast China, it is necessary to determine the design of wind loads on tall buildings. These can help build wind resistant supertall buildings, as well as offshore wind turbines in the open seas of China. This research relates to the following Sustainable Development Goals: • SDG 13: Climate Action • SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities • SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure