Effect of different wind loading frequencies on tree deflection and uprooting

Abstract

Tree uprooting is the most common occurrence in hurricanes and storms; however the mechanism is not well known. Numerous attempts have been made to model the damage caused to the trees by the storm. Less is known about the loading condition, which is important for predicting the occurrence of uprooting. In this analysis, numerical models were used to investigate the effect of loading frequency on tree resistance using theoretical soil and root parameters. Results show that tree deflection under wind loading is highly dependent on loading frequency and lowfrequency loading is highly probable.