Pat Shingleton for Nov. 7, 2012

Most motorists will be crossing a bridge or two on this “Day After the Elections.” Local and state experts constantly monitor the condition of our bridges. As noted in a previous column, on Nov. 7, 1940, residents of Tacoma, Wash., were stunned after the opening of a new bridge. Wind speeds were only 35 mph but they caused the Narrows Bridge to vibrate excessively. Moments later, it collapsed into Puget Sound. The collapsed span was called “Galloping Gertie,” entering the engineering Hall of Shame. This prompted the start of the meteorological field of wind engineering. M eteorologists specializing in atmospheric winds collaborate with structural and civil engineers putting up high-rise buildings, sports stadiums, bridges and other structures. “Wind-proofing” of coastal residences continues to save billions of dollars when storms hit. Fastcast: Cold.