Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU), NSF NHERI 2025: Algorithmic Correction of Coastal Wind Measurements for Anemometer Tilt and Terrain Effects During Landfalling Hurricanes

This project entails the development and validation of an algorithm to correct deployable Sentinel weather station wind speed and direction measurements in hurricanes for mast vibration, sway, and tilt. Reusable corrected data can be used to improve hurricane modeling, enhance structural design codes, and support emergency planning. This study combines field observations from Hurricane Milton with Boundary Layer Wind Tunnel testing in controlled conditions to calibrate the correction technique for various tilt conditions. The intended audience includes hurricane scientists, meteorologists, structural engineers, and emergency managers who make important decisions based on accurate wind information.