Radar-based Analysis of the Dallas Cowboys Practice Facility Collapse of 2 May 2009

The Dallas Cowboys indoor practice facility in Irving, TX, collapsed on 2 May 2009. The 86-foot tall steel frame and fabric structure succumbed to severe thunderstorm winds, injuring several people, one seriously. The facility was fortuitously located 2.4 and 14 km from two Terminal Doppler Weather Radars (TDWRs). Analysis of the TDWR and surface data indicates that maximum surface wind gusts were likely in the 63-79 mph range, while gusts at the top of the facility likely reached 78-96 mph, with an upper limit of 101-126 mph. The results are discussed in the context of a meteorological consulting study.