Assessing infrastructure exposure to mountain wave wind events in the Southern Appalachians

Abstract Mountain wave wind events (MWWE) pose significant risks to infrastructure, particularly in mountainous regions with extreme downslope winds exceeding 40 m s−¹. Although extensively studied in the western U.S., MWWE impacts remain underexplored in the Southern Appalachians, where critical energy infrastructure intersects high-risk areas. This study utilizes high-resolution Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model simulations to analyze probable MWWE recurrence and assess transmission line vulnerability. Seven MWWE spanning 41 h at 500-m resolution were modeled, identifying strong correlations between elevation and High Wind Warning-level wind exceedances (|U| ≥ 17.8 m s−¹), predominantly near ridgelines and downwind slopes. Transmission lines at higher elevations and select valleys experience repeated threshold-level wind exposure, highlighting risks of infrastructure failure and cascading hazards like wildfires. Results underscore the necessity for enhanced risk mitigation, grid resilience, and adaptive infrastructure planning. This research advances MWWE’s understanding in the Eastern U.S. and provides actionable insights for stakeholders.