U-M Wind Tunnels in the News – Michigan Aerospace Engineering

Recently, Emmy award-winning meteorologist Ashlee Baracy, stepped into the University of Michigan wind tunnel to learn more about how severe storms and high winds could affect the state of Michigan. Baracy stepped into the U-M wind tunnel to personally test its high wind pressure and learn about the damage that can come from straight-line winds.

During the visit, Baracy spoke with Associate Professor Seymour Spence, representing U-M Civil and Environmental Engineering, to explore the effects of high winds on buildings and other infrastructure. With severe thunderstorm warnings starting at wind speeds of 58 mph, Baracy and Dr. Seymour Spence explained the severity wind damage can cause if proper preventative measures aren’t taken.

The University of Michigan uses these wind tunnels for experimental and theoretical research work among various departments. The tunnels are run by the Aerodynamics and Propulsion team, which consists of a closely integrated group of professors, technicians and students within the Aerospace Department. The research interests of the group include a wide range of fluid dynamic, combustion and propulsion problems, much of which is based on wind tunnel experimentation.

We were honored to help coordinate this story and would like to thank the WDIV team for coming onto campus to visit our wind tunnel. Watch the full report and learn more about the effects of severe winds in Michigan.