In wind effects on buildings, which statement best describes the leeward side pressure relative to the windward side?

• A. It is typically higher than the windward side
• B. It is identical to the windward side
• C. It fluctuates randomly
• D. It is typically lower than the windward side

Answer: (D)

When wind hits a building, the front (windward) face faces the oncoming flow and air is slowed to a stop at the surface, creating stagnation pressure that pushes on that face. As the flow wraps around the sides and leaves a wake behind the building, the pressure in that leeward region drops due to flow separation and suction in the wake. So, the leeward side ends up with lower pressure compared with the windward side (with local turbulence causing some fluctuations, but the overall trend remains).