Strong Winds, Masts Caused China Skyscraper To Sway

Investigators concluded on Thursday, July 15, 2021, that strong winds were part of the reason a 70-story skyscraper in China swayed back and forth two months ago, prompting evacuations and concerns about the building's structural stability, Clyde Hughes reported for United Press International (UPI.)

The tower in Shenzhen, SEG Plaza, started swaying on May 18 and was ultimately closed due to safety concerns. On Thursday, investigators said the cause appeared to be a "vortex-induced resonance" created by strong winds and two long masts installed at the top of the building.

Winds and the aging masts on the building caused the resonances, the experts said. They recommended removing the antennas and repairing the damage they have caused over the past 20 years.

The antennas are there to protect the building from lightning and are used as a beacon for aircraft.

Beijing's state-run Global Times said experts examined the building and found it to be safe for normal use. Government officials said they will assist commercial businesses in returning to the building after changes are made to prevent further swaying.

The tower swayed nearly two dozen times between May 18 and May 20 before it was completely closed down to the public and workers.

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