In conjunction with this funding announcement, Congressman Díaz-Balart and FIU officials will host a Hurricane Preparedness press conference. This event aims to highlight the importance of readiness for the upcoming hurricane season and discuss the critical role of the Wall of Wind facility in enhancing community resilience.
The Wall of Wind is dedicated to researching extreme weather, testing future climate scenarios - particularly for Category 5 storms - through simulations. The large-scale hurricane simulator utilizes a 12-fan 8,400 horsepower system capable of generating 157 mph wind speeds with rain intrusion This research analyzes the potential damage levels and devastation caused by extreme hurricane winds.
Researchers use results from Wall of Wind testing to explore solutions that will help mitigate the destruction caused by powerful windstorms. This research provides key insights for enhancing the resilience of critical infrastructure such as residential and commercial buildings.
The additional funding will allow researchers to expand capacity and continue work that could lead to strengthening building code standards for greater resilience to Category 5 storms for homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure.
Media assets are availablehereand will be updated after the event.
