Mean Speed Profiles of Hurricane Winds

A numerical solution of the hurricane boundary layer problem is presented in which the hurricane is modeled as a steady axisymmetric neutrally stratified flow. The results of the calculations obtained on the basis of the described model suggest that: (1) In the height range of interest to the structural designer, say up to a height of 400 m above the ground, it is permissible to use the logarithmic law to represent the mean velocity profile of hurricane winds; and (2) if the relation between wind speeds in different roughness regimes which is valid in extratropical storms is applied to hurricane winds, the speeds over built-up terrain, calculated as functions of speed over open terrain, may be underestimated by about 10% and 10%-20% in suburban and urban exposure, respectively. The corresponding mean loads are then underestimated by about 15% and 30%, respectively.