Networked Infrastructure Performance for the 2006 Hanukkah Eve Storm

Winter storm damage can be severe. Most of the damage is to the interdependent lifelines such as the power delivery system, the transportation grid and the wastewater system. Evidence of the closed-loop interdependencies as described for hurricanes between power delivery and transportation was apparent for the Hanukkah Eve Storm. Power outages can create difficulties in the winter due to low temperatures. Air quality suffers during periods of extended outages due to smoke from fireplaces. Unfortunately, the few deaths that occurred were primarily attributed to carbon monoxide poisoning or smoke inhalation. Investigations of the infrastructure damage are ongoing at the University of Washington.