Technical Session Examines Methods to Distinguish Wind Damage from Storm Surge Damage
NEW ORLEANS — Dr. Ziad Azzi, Director of Engineering at DDA Forensics, presented a technical session at the National Academy of Forensic Engineers (NAFE) Winter Conference in New Orleans, Jan. 16–18, 2026. The annual conference brings together leading forensic engineering professionals from across the U.S. for advanced education, networking, and collaboration. Attendees earn continuing education credits, enhance professional development, and fulfill licensure requirements with peer-reviewed presentations led by experts in the field.
Azzi’s presentation, “Wind Damage vs. Storm Surge Damage: A Case Study from Hurricane Helene,” was held at 1:30 p.m. on Jan. 17. He covered methods to distinguish wind-related structural damage from storm surge-induced effects, a critical challenge in disaster response, forensic evaluation, and insurance claims adjudication. Read the conference agenda: https://www.nafe.org/sites/default/files/2025-12/NOLASaturdayLong12-23-25_0.pdf.
“My presentation focused on wind science, hurricane and surge formations, inspection indicators exclusive to wind damage, as well as those exclusive to storm surge damage. I also introduced two case studies from Hurricane Helene in the Big Bend region of Florida,” says Azzi.
Between 1980 and 2024, natural hazards have resulted in approximately $2.9 trillion in economic losses across the U.S. Tropical cyclones represent the most damaging hazard type, accounting for 53% of total losses. Following major events, post-disaster damage assessments conducted by federal agencies, such as FEMA, and by private-sector entities, including insurance carriers, are tasked with distinguishing between wind-related and storm-surge-related damage. This forensic differentiation is critical for structural failure analysis, accurate insurance claims adjudication, and equitable allocation of recovery resources. Misattribution can lead to substantial disputes and financial discrepancies.
Azzi presented a case study on both pre-event vulnerability assessments and post-event forensic evaluations aimed at identifying and differentiating wind-induced versus storm surge-induced damage to residential buildings. The proposed methodology integrates civil engineering principles, forensic investigation techniques, and building codes and standards to improve damage attribution accuracy and post-disaster decision-making.
“Accurate forensic attribution after major weather events isn’t just technical. It’s essential for fair recovery outcomes and equitable allocation of resources. This session provides real-world methodology for improving differentiation and decision-making,” says Azzi.
Azzi is a senior member of NAFE, reflecting his professional credentials, technical expertise and commitment to advancing forensic engineering standards nationwide. As Director of Engineering at DDA Forensics, he oversees all aspects of the engineering department. He also delivers lectures, continuing education courses and presentations on forensic engineering throughout the globe. He has published numerous articles and conference papers in prestigious journals.
“Presenting at NAFE speaks to the level of expertise Ziad brings to the industry. His presentation highlights how critical accurate damage attribution is, not only for structural integrity assessments, but for fair and defensible claims outcomes. He’s helping move the conversation beyond assumptions and into evidence-based analysis. That kind of leadership elevates the entire profession,” says Brian Peterson, Managing Partner, DDA Forensics.
About DDA Forensics
DDA Forensics provides forensic engineering, building consulting and expert witness services for attorneys and insurance carriers throughout Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Texas. We specialize in evaluating and determining the cause of property damage and failures for residential and commercial structures. With over 20 years of experience, the most advanced education, certifications and technologies, we provide objective and accurate forensic investigations that yield clear, concise, conclusive results. Learn more at www.DDAForensics.com.
About the National Academy of Forensic Engineers (NAFE)
The National Academy of Forensic Engineers (NAFE) and its members are committed to serving the public by advancing the ethical and professional practice of forensic engineering. The organization serves the jurisprudential system by certifying individuals having achieved expertise in forensic engineering. We’re committed to furthering the development of forensic engineers through education and the publication of peer-reviewed technical literature. Learn more at https://www.nafe.org/.
Media Inquiries:
Angela Delmedico
Elev8 Consulting Group
Ph: 386-243-5388
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Web: www.elev8cg.com
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