New Sensors to Monitor Storm Surge on Bridges
A University of Florida team is starting to gather real-time data on the impact of waves and rising water on bridges during hurricanes. Unlike studies that rely on tests in wave laboratories, this research will use data transmitted directly from bridges during actual storms. With support from the National Science Foundation (NSF), civil engineering Professor Jennifer Bridge and her students are investigating how best to provide early warning to communities when a bridge is in danger of failing due to storm damage. Monitoring coastal bridge health will also help engineers design more reliable bridges in the future.