Vulnerability of Buildings on Coastal Dikes due to Wave Overtopping

Abstract

The vulnerability of buildings on coastal dikes due to overtopping wave impacts is difficult to assess. A method is developed in this paper to quantify the vulnerability of masonry buildings on a coastal dike exposed to wave overtopping. Using previous studies, the accidental loads due to the extreme wave impacts are characterized. Using the approach from Eurocode 6, the strength of masonry buildings under these loads is assessed. Results from a case study in Belgium show that masonry buildings located 10–15 m away from the seafront would suffer from localized damage, such as windows being broken under a 1000 year storm. The building would collapse under a 10,000-year storm. The method can be used to assess the safety of existing buildings on coastal dikes and to design new buildings.