A review of computational fluid dynamics application to investigate tropical cyclone wind speeds

This paper reviews and evaluates the application of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to predict the impact of tropical cyclone wind speeds. The literature on this topic is sparse; however, in the past decade an increasing number of studies have been carried out. Historical tropical cyclone events have motivated several studies, and researchers have adopted a methodology of coupling numerical weather prediction models (NWPs) with CFD models. This computational approach is relatively new and allows researchers to predict the impacts of tropical cyclone wind speeds more accurately. However, upon review it is clear the approach taken by researchers in this field do not adhere to the best practice guidelines established by wind engineers. The majority of the researchers have not validated their numerical results and even fewer have ensured the CFD model has a homogeneous atmospheric boundary layer (ABL), both of which are important to the accuracy of the results. Based on the findings of this review, CFD can be coupled with NWP models to model a higher resolution tropical cyclone event. However, following the guidelines of wind engineers can improve the quality of such investigations.