Tacoma Narrows Bridge Collapse

The Tacoma Narrows Bridge collapse refers to the dramatic failure of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge in Washington state, USA, on November 7, 1940. The bridge, which connected the city of Tacoma to the Kitsap Peninsula, collapsed just a few months after its completion.

The bridge, often called "Galloping Gertie" due to its characteristic undulating motion in windy conditions, experienced strong winds on the day of the collapse. The design of the bridge, particularly its narrow and flexible roadway, contributed to its vulnerability to aeroelastic flutter.

The collapse was captured on film by a local resident, and the footage became iconic in engineering and physics education. The incident led to advancements in the understanding of aeroelasticity and influenced subsequent bridge designs. The collapse also prompted engineers to consider the dynamic effects of wind on long-span bridges and the importance of accounting for these factors in the design process.

After the collapse of the original Tacoma Narrows Bridge, a new bridge was constructed in the same location and opened in 1950. This new bridge, along with subsequent bridges in the area, incorporated lessons learned from the collapse to ensure greater stability and safety in the face of adverse weather conditions.