Some buildings performed well during Hurricane Dorian in the Bahamas, likely saving lives, according to a preliminary virtual reconnaissance report by the University of Florida’s Engineering School of Sustainable Infrastructure and Environment.
Buildings such as the Marsh Harbour Healthcare Center served as storm shelters and performed well. Marsh Harbour was back to functioning immediately after the hurricane passed through the islands.
Hurricane Dorian raised the need for more study on impacts of slow-progression hurricanes and highlighted the need to reexamine disaster risk and preparedness for small island nations, the report says. At least 76,000 people were impacted by Dorian on the Bahamas, with more than 50 deaths and many still missing.
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) reported that satellite-based damage assessments have counted about 1,100 destroyed buildings and nearly 2,300 damaged buildings on Greater Abaco, one of the hardest-hit islands. Building destruction on some islands ranged from 25% to 75%.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Nov 30, 2020
Finalized 2021 Energy Code leaves out future-proofing provision
Appeals process nixed requirement for residential electrification readiness.
Codes and Standards | Nov 23, 2020
GBCI turns over GRESB ownership to global investment firm
Organization assesses sustainability performance of real estate and infrastructure portfolios and assets.
Codes and Standards | Nov 23, 2020
New industrywide clay brick EPD launched
Contributes toward LEED v.4.0 and v.4.1 materials and resources requirements.
Codes and Standards | Nov 19, 2020
The ‘15-minute city’ could transform municipal planning
Concept aims for car-free living.
Codes and Standards | Nov 18, 2020
Commissioning study finds median energy savings of 3% to 16%
Berkeley Lab examines results of commissioning across building types.
Codes and Standards | Nov 17, 2020
Midtown Manhattan’s empty offices could be converted to affordable housing
Advocates envision idle offices re-zoned to alleviate housing crisis.
Codes and Standards | Nov 16, 2020
New concrete detailing manual includes downloadable CAD files
American Concrete Institute document contains guidance on codes for structural concrete.
Codes and Standards | Nov 12, 2020
California rent control measure defeated
Golden State voters reject Proposition 21.
Codes and Standards | Nov 11, 2020
NY court ruling makes it easier for condo boards to sue investors for construction defects
Investors would be tapped for damages on such cases.
Codes and Standards | Nov 10, 2020
Researchers and industry leaders will form national institute for AI in construction
Goal is to identify high-impact areas for application in design and construction.