Research Article
Oct 1978
Tornado Data Characterization and Windspeed Risk
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VIEW THE REPLYPublication: Journal of the Structural Division
Volume 104, Issue 10
Abstract
Tornado data records are analyzed for potential classification error, F-scale windspeed correlation, and tornado intensity variation. This assessment provides quantification of the uncertainties inherent in tornado wind loading specification and risk analysis as a result of the indirect measuring techniques utilized in the current national tornado classification methodology. A data base of over 4,500 tornadoes is analyzed according to three broad geographic regions to demonstrate the methodology and to provide input for tornado loading risk analyses. The results indicate that the potential classification error is significant for the intense tornadoes and tends to underestimate the likelihood of the rare events by several hundred percent. A set of updated windspeed transformations are presented which suggest that the original windspeed ranges are 10% to 20% too high. The maximum tornado windspeeds are suggested as 300 mph, 225 mph, and 200 mph for three identified tornado regions in the United States.
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Information
Published In
Journal of the Structural Division
Volume 104 • Issue 10 • October 1978
Pages: 1611 - 1630
Copyright
© 1978 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Published in print: Oct 1978
Published online: Feb 1, 2021
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Authors
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Lawrence A. Twisdale Jr., M.ASCE
Systems Engr., Research Triangle Inst., Research Triangle Park, N.C.; formerly, Prin. Engr., Carolina Power & Light Co., Raleigh, N.C.
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ASCE Library Cards let you download journal articles, proceedings papers, and available book chapters across the entire ASCE Library platform. ASCE Library Cards remain active for 24 months or until all downloads are used. Note: This content will be debited as one download at time of checkout.
Terms of Use: ASCE Library Cards are for individual, personal use only. Reselling, republishing, or forwarding the materials to libraries or reading rooms is prohibited.
Terms of Use: ASCE Library Cards are for individual, personal use only. Reselling, republishing, or forwarding the materials to libraries or reading rooms is prohibited.