Can a Category 15 Typhoon Blow Away a Car?
2 Answers
A Category 15 typhoon can blow away a car, but the ability of different cars to withstand typhoons varies. During typhoon weather, it is best not to drive out. If you must drive in typhoon conditions, be sure to slow down and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. It is advisable to park your car in an underground garage or in an open area with good visibility. Avoid parking under billboards, trees, or temporary structures. The level of wind a car can withstand depends on its weight, shape, and wind-exposed area. For example, an unloaded small van with its side exposed to the wind can be blown away instantly, whereas a heavily loaded truck remains as stable as a mountain. Additionally, sedans generally have stronger typhoon resistance than SUVs because sedans have a lower center of gravity, are much shorter in height, and have better grip. The typhoon resistance of a moving car differs from that of a stationary car. A moving car is in motion, and according to the physics of how moving objects interact with wind, a moving car is far less capable of resisting a typhoon compared to a stationary one. Generally, a stationary car can withstand a Category 14 typhoon, while a moving car may lose control in a Category 12 typhoon, especially when the wind blows from the side, increasing the risk of rollover accidents.
Having driven for many years, I've witnessed typhoon weather conditions firsthand. A Category 15 typhoon has extremely powerful winds that can completely move cars or even flip them over. Based on actual observations, when wind speeds exceed 150 kilometers per hour, light vehicles may be moved or lifted by the strong winds, and even heavy SUVs risk being rolled over. For example, I remember during a super typhoon in 2018, parked cars on the roadside were blown into trees—a terrifying sight. Before a typhoon hits, it's best to park your car in a garage or secure it with ropes; parking in open areas or near billboards is even more dangerous. Every time strong winds approach, I check my parking spot to ensure there's building coverage. Although cars are heavy, their resistance becomes pitifully small under extreme wind pressure. Don't risk parking improperly during a typhoon—safety comes above all else.
