Towards an improved wind speed scale and damage description adapted for Central Europe

We propose an updated wind speed scale description adapted for Central Europe considering wind impact to buildings as well as to vegetation. The scale is motivated by the need of a broadly applicable, accurate and consistent tornado or downburst intensity rating system based on a standardised wind speed scale for the purpose of climatological homogeneity. The description comprises building and vegetation damage characteristics, which can be found in Central Europe - but similar in other parts of the world, occurring with the various classes of the Fujita- and T-scales. The scale description is supplemented by photographs of typical damage. For practical application, an ensemble-based use of a decision matrix for specific building structures and vegetation types is suggested.

Research highlights► We propose an updated tornado/downburst wind speed scale description. ► The scale helps to make rating systems broadly applicable, accurate and consistent. ► Wind impacts to buildings/vegetation are considered for Central Europe. ► The scale description is supplemented by photographs of typical damage. ► We suggest an ensemble-based decision matrix for specific building/vegetation types.