State to install wind-speed sensors on 10 South Florida homes

Data To Provide New Insight on How High Winds Affect Residential Structures

TALLAHASSEE-The Florida Department of Community Affairs (DCA) will launch the Florida Coastal Monitoring Project at an 11:00 a.m. press conference on Wednesday, July 7 in Homestead, Florida. Officials say this new initiative will have a significant impact on the scientific study of how wind speed and pressure affect homes during a hurricane or other high-wind event. As part of this unprecedented initiative, 28 sensors that will monitor wind speed and pressure will be installed on the roof surfaces, walls, attic spaces and interior rooms of 10 South Florida homes.

Scientists say these sensors will provide valuable information on how, when and why homes withstand or succumb to the effects of high winds.

When:
Wednesday, July 7 at 11:00 a.m.

Where:
The home of Juan Perez at 15955 SW 304th Terrace, Homestead, Florida.

Photo Opportunities:
Photo opportunities will include the installation of wind speed and pressure sensors on the Perez's home, examples of various retrofitting techniques such as re-roofing, gable end bracing and storm shutters and an on-site mobile wind monitoring tower unit.

Media Availability:
Jim Robinson Assistant Secretary, DCA
Tom Pierce Director of Housing and Community Development, DCA
Joe Myers Director of Emergency Management, DCA
Dr. Tim Reinhold Researcher, Clemson University
Hon. Dennis Moss Commissioner, Miami-Dade County

MEDIA ADVISORY:
Contact: David Bishop
850-922-1740
Ian Smith
850-922-1870