Trajectories of spheres in strong winds with application to wind-borne debris

In this paper, trajectories of spheres, carried by strong winds, are studied theoretically and numerically. The application is to wind-borne debris occurring in severe windstorms such as hurricanes. It is shown that the effect of vertical air resistance is significant, and should be included to accurately predict both horizontal and vertical velocities and displacements. Turbulence appears to have little effect on average trajectories, but produces significant variability in individual trajectories. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.