Glossary
Wind Load
Plain-Language Definition
The force exerted on a building by wind pressure and suction. Design wind load is determined by: basic wind speed, building height, exposure category (terrain), building shape, and importance factor.
Technical Context
BNBC 2020 specifies basic wind speeds for Bangladesh zones: Zone I = 195 km/h (Dhaka), up to Zone V = 260 km/h (coastal). Wind load increases with height (velocity pressure increases with elevation) and is affected by building shape (aerodynamic coefficients). Wind load acts as both positive pressure (windward) and negative pressure/suction (leeward, roof). Components and cladding experience higher local wind pressures than the overall structure.
Why It Matters
Wind load determines the design of the structural frame, facade cladding, and roof. Inadequate wind design causes: roof blow-off, facade panel failure, window breakage, and in extreme cases structural collapse. Bangladesh is cyclone-prone — coastal areas experience design wind speeds of 260 km/h. Even Dhaka (195 km/h) experiences severe storms.
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