At What Wind Speed Level Are Highways Closed?
3 Answers
If there is a wind force of 6 to 7 on the Beaufort scale, it is actually not advisable to drive on the highway. Strong crosswinds on the highway can affect the driving stability of the vehicle. Vehicle Stability: The stability of a car at high speeds depends on factors such as chassis tuning and aerodynamics. If the car's shock absorbers are relatively soft, the stability of the car at high speeds will be poor, even if the car itself is heavy, its high-speed stability will still be compromised. Impact of Strong Winds on Vehicles: When driving in windy conditions, vehicles are affected by crosswinds, especially vans or large vehicles, as these types of vehicles are significantly impacted due to their higher center of gravity and larger side surface area. Additionally, lighter vehicles are also very susceptible to such effects. The faster the vehicle's speed, the stronger the impact of the crosswind will be.
I've been driving for over twenty years and have experienced many windy days. The general standard for highway closures is when wind speeds reach force 10. This wind force is equivalent to speeds of 80-100 kilometers per hour, making the car sway like a boat, which is particularly dangerous. Bridges or open areas are more prone to accidents, such as crosswinds causing small cars to drift or large vehicles to overturn. Traffic authorities monitor in real-time based on weather forecasts and will close road entrances once wind speeds exceed the limit, notifying drivers via electronic signs or broadcasts. As an experienced driver, I recommend checking real-time wind levels with a traffic app or listening to radio updates before traveling on windy days. Don't risk taking the highway just to save time—safety should always come first. If you encounter strong winds, it's better to find a nearby rest stop and wait.
Highways are closed during high winds, typically starting when wind speeds reach around level 10. This standard is based on safety assessments, as excessively strong winds significantly increase accident risks, especially the issue of vehicle rollover at high speeds. There may be slight regional variations, such as slightly lower thresholds in coastal areas. In terms of management procedures, meteorological departments collaborate with traffic authorities to initiate closure mechanisms when wind speeds exceed the limit. Key reminder for drivers: check weather forecasts in advance and choose alternative routes on windy days to avoid congestion at highway entrances. Developing safe habits can save a lot of trouble and protect your vehicle from damage.
