Gulf Coast Code Changes Backed By Forensic Study

Coast in the Eye of the Storm Hurricane Katrina: August 29, 2005, a forensic evaluation of building systems and how they are impacted by hurricanes, high

CP STAFF

Coast in the Eye of the Storm Û Hurricane Katrina: August 29, 2005, a forensic evaluation of building systems and how they are impacted by hurricanes, high winds, storm surge and flooding, recommends changes for Mississippi building codes to better protect human life and property from the effects of future catastrophic weather events. Prepared by Mississippi State University with funding from the concrete industry, the study likewise evaluates the damage to coastal building systems brought on by Hurricane Katrina’s high winds and resulting flooding.

Coast in the Eye was released in July by the RMC Research Foundation, which along with the Mississippi Concrete Industries Association helped fund the Mississippi State post-Hurricane Katrina building evaluation. Although only recently finalized, collected data has already been instrumental in spurring state building code regulations, RMC Foundation officials note. When the project began, it became clear that Mississippi’s codes, particularly along the Gulf Coast, were inadequate to ensure public safety during a catastrophic storm. The data allowed us to work with the state legislature to begin updating the state’s residential and commercial building codes [and] make significant changes as a first step in rebuilding Mississippi’s Gulf Coast, says MCIA Executive Director Robert Varner.

This study will potentially benefit all regions that are under threat of weather-related natural disasters by demonstrating how different building systems stand up to future weather events and help protect property and life, adds RMC Foundation Chairman Christopher Crouch (Cemex).