High-resolution wind risk mapping of structures deployed along line-like infrastructures: General framework and application

The lack of high-resolution wind hazard maps has long limited the development of comprehensive wind risk assessments for countrywide infrastructures. This study introduces an integrated probabilistic framework for evaluating and mapping the wind failure risk of point-like structural assets deployed along line-like infrastructure systems. The feasibility of the approach is demonstrated by focusing on a particular infrastructure class, i.e. lattice towers along overhead power lines, with a specific application to a transnational transmission corridor between Italy and Switzerland. The wind hazard model is grounded on a novel high-resolution omnidirectional wind speed mesoscale mapping methodology taking advantage of downscaled reanalysis dataset. Structural vulnerability is characterized through literature-based fragility curves for lattice towers. Exposure is defined through geospatial datasets of the Italian and Swiss power networks. The proposed framework enables quantitative estimation of failure probabilities for both individual structures and entire transmission lines, supporting risk-informed design, mitigation, maintenance prioritization, and potential relocation of critical infrastructures. Results are presented through risk maps differing in dimensionality, extent of the covered domain and design perspectives. Transnational 2D risk mapping assists the planning of entire networks. 1D risk mapping supports the design and/or relocation of entire lines. 0D risk mapping supports the design and/or performance assessment of individual lattice towers.