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2008 Twisters on Track to Blow Away Past
Records
 Both
the May 28 edition of the Chicago Sun-Times and June 1
edition of the Chicago Tribune reported that 2008 is the
deadliest year for tornadoes since 1998. As of the beginning of
June, at least 110 people had already died in tornadoes. The Sun-Times
also reported that the National Weather Service estimates that 2008
seems on track to break the record for the number of twisters in
one year.
Recent events remind us that the season is not finished but remains
quite active. Parts of Wisconsin, Indiana, and Illinois were all
hit by weekend tornadoes and related flooding. What have we learned
about the way we build and can we do anything to make this situation
better?
Concrete and masonry homes have a proven record of good performance
in high winds. The solid construction is strong to resist the buffeting
forces and its weight is a benefit against uplift that can harm
lighter systems. This results in lives saved and property value
conserved. If repairs are needed, they are generally completed faster
and with less effort. For new construction and rebuilding in tornado-prone
areas, concrete and concrete masonry make sense.
 Each
year, many regions of the United States—not to mention all
over the world—are affected by tornadoes, hurricanes, and
cyclones. Many stories reported over the years have shown how buildings
can protect occupants or not. Some past Florida hurricanes, Andrew
in particular, were the impetus for improvements to building codes
that made construction safer. These changes included provisions
for tie-downs, connections, and roof ballast.
When building new construction or replacing damaged structures in
any area, an honest assessment ought to be made to determine the
likelihood of future high wind events. Because this topic potentially
has major implications, it should be given serious consideration.
The greater the chance for strong winds, the more compelling the
argument for building in concrete or masonry.
Related Stories:
For more information on storm-resistant construction, consider
the following:
Storm Resistant
Concrete Masonry Homes & Buildings, LT300
The Guide to
Concrete Masonry Residential Construction in High-Wind Areas:
Recommendations for Design and Construction, LT224
Images from the National
Severe Storms Laboratory's storm intercept slide archive.
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