Extreme Weather Draws Attention to RMC Study

Heavy hurricane and tropical storm activity in the Atlantic and Gulf Coast regions have renewed interest in the report Coast in the Eye of the Storm--Hurricane Katrina: August 29, 2005.

Funded by the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association's (RMC) Research & Education Foundation and the Mississippi Concrete Industries Association, the study was conducted by Mississippi State University's Civil Engineering Department. The report includes a forensic evaluation of how different building systems withstand catastrophic weather events including the high winds, projectile damage, storm surge and flooding associated with hurricanes. The report also includes recommendations for strengthening building codes. The findings of the study have already helped to affect changes in building codes along Mississippi's coastal region.

"As areas affected by these recent storms continue to clean up and begin rebuilding efforts, it is important to consider ways in which life and property may be better protected in the future," said Foundation Executive Director Julie Garbini. "The Foundation's Board of Trustees was particularly interested in how this study would assist communities in their rebuilding efforts both in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina but also following future storms since the findings would be applicable to all areas under threat of severe weather."

Copies of the report may be obtained on CD or as a hard copy. For more information about this study and others funded by the RMC Research & Education Foundation, visit www.rmc-foundation.org.

Source: RMC Research & Education Foundation