Lightning Strikes Thrice - Empire State Building

Description: Many people believe that lightning never strikes the same place twice but this video clearly shows that this is not true. A lightning rod consists of three main parts: a lightning rod at the top of a structure, a conducting wire, and a ground rod. This design allows electricity from the lightning strike to pass through directly to the ground without moving through the structure. This protects the structure and the people inside from possible fire and electrocution. This video shows that severe weather occurs in predictable ways and that humans must develop designs that can protect ourselves.

Web Resources:  Lightning Rod - Wikipedia, Next Gen Lightning Protection - Extreme Tech

I caught three direct strikes to the Empire State Building lightning rod after midnight on 4/13/11 during a severe thunderstorm. I actually saw a fourth direct hit, but sadly wasn't filming at the time. I've never seen so many hits on the ESB in one night. It was ridiculous!

UAE Building a Mountain to Increase Rainfall

Description: The UAE is exploring the idea of building a mountain to increase rainfall in the area. The government has already used cloud seeding in the area to increase rainfall and is currently exploring a mega-project to build a mountain. This could be used as an anchoring phenomenon in a unit on weather and climate. The design solution would mimic the role of mountains in affecting climates around the world.

Web Resource: Independent - UAE to Build ‘Fake” Mountain

ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - The United Arab Emirates is considering building an artificial mountain to increase rainfall and address the country's water shortages. The International Business Times reports that according to the UAE's Federal Water and Electricity Authority, an average resident uses an estimated 550 liters of water daily - almost two to three times the international average of 170 to 300 liters.

Stilt Houses

Description: Stilt houses are built on pilings to avoid local weather conditions like storms and flooding. This engineering design solution allows humans to reduce the impact of weather-related hazards. Students can evaluate the merits of this solution or design solutions of their own for a local environment.

Web Resources: Stilt House - Wikipedia, Make it Right

Wisely-built house in the Elwha River floodplain.