Wind and Snow Load Factors for Use in LRFD

Abstract

The statistics of wind and snow loads to be used in the load and Resistance Factor Design method are developed in this paper. The mean and the coefficient of variation of different load variables are derived using available meteorological data. The load variables identified are the lifetime maximum wind pressure, the annual maximum wind pressure, the daily maximum wind pressure, the annual maximum snow load, and lifetime maximum snow load. The load factors to be applied on each of these loads are also derived.