Analysis of rapid damage assessment data following severe windstorm events

Smith, Daniel J., Krupar, Richard J., Henderson, David J., and Mason, Matthew S. (2017) Analysis of rapid damage assessment data following severe windstorm events. The Australian Journal of Emergency Management, 32 (4). pp. 52-57.

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Abstract

The Cyclone Testing Station (CTS) and partners have conducted forensic damage assessments in Australia following severe windstorm events for over four decades. The information collected is used for building science research that provides the evidence base needed for improvements to building codes and development of damage mitigation solutions. The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) operate Rapid Damage Assessment (RDA) teams in the aftermath of major disasters (e.g. cyclone and bushfire) to collect and disseminate information on extent of damage to buildings in impacted communities. These data enables focused and coordinated response in the immediate aftermath of an event and better planning for event recovery. This paper explores the use of QFES RDA datasets in analysing the damaging effects of severe windstorm events. Two case studies are discussed: a supercell that hit Brisbane on 27 November 2014 and Tropical Cyclone Debbie that made landfall along the northern Queensland coastline in March 2017. Where possible, damage data are combined with hazard information (dual-Doppler radar horizontal wind fields) and their relationship is investigated. The analysis demonstrates that RDA data are not only useful in response and recovery phases, but also have value for research aiming to better understand building failures and reduce damage in future events.

Item ID: 51962
Item Type: Article (Research - C1)
ISSN: 1324-1540
Funders: Bushfire and Natural Hazards Cooperative Research Centre
Date Deposited: 10 Jan 2018 07:55
FoR Codes: 40 ENGINEERING > 4005 Civil engineering > 400510 Structural engineering @ 50%
40 ENGINEERING > 4010 Engineering practice and education > 401001 Engineering design @ 50%
SEO Codes: 97 EXPANDING KNOWLEDGE > 970109 Expanding Knowledge in Engineering @ 100%
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