Can a Level 8 Wind Blow Away a Car?
3 Answers
It is not recommended to drive in level 8 winds. Level 8 wind refers to wind speeds ranging from 17.2 to 20.4 meters per second. Whether a car can be blown away depends on its weight, shape, and wind-exposed area. Below is additional information: 1. Weight: The weight of a typical passenger car ranges from 800KG to 2000KG. The weight of a car, also known as its curb weight, refers to the complete weight of the car when equipped according to factory specifications, including the spare tire, tools, and all fluids filled. The curb weight is the car's own weight, which includes the weight of the car under normal driving conditions plus any attached accessories. 2. Stability: A car's stability is usually measured by two indicators: longitudinal stability and lateral stability. The stability of a car depends not only on factors such as the car's center of gravity, the stiffness of the leaf springs, tire performance, and braking efficiency but also on the smoothness of steering, the application of brakes, and proper loading.
I remember last year during the typhoon, the wind was extremely strong, reportedly reaching force 8. I was driving on the highway, and my car was swaying left and right from the wind, making it hard to keep a firm grip on the steering wheel. But my SUV weighs 1.6 tons, solidly planted on the ground, impossible to blow away. The wind just kept pushing forward, capable of uprooting small trees or blowing off roof debris, but cars are too substantial, with their wheels grounded for support. However, when crosswinds are strong on the highway, the car tends to float at high speeds, risking rollover or collision with guardrails. That time, I quickly reduced my speed to below 40 km/h and drove slowly back home. Later, the mechanic told me that car designs account for wind resistance, but it's safer to avoid driving in strong winds and instead rest at service areas. Lighter cars are more at risk, and it's wiser to park in sheltered spots. Always check the weather forecast; if there's a wind warning, it's best not to risk driving—safety first.
I'm quite interested in cars and often study the impact of strong winds on vehicles. An 8-level wind has a speed of about 70 kilometers per hour, equivalent to the airflow of a major storm. A car in strong winds acts like a large air cushion, with high pressure on the windward side potentially causing lateral thrust. Generally, a regular family sedan weighs between 1.5 to 2 tons, making it unrealistic for the wind to blow it away directly, but it can push or overturn the car, especially SUVs with higher centers of gravity, which are more prone to tipping over. I've seen wind tunnel test videos simulating 8-level winds, where cars only experience slight shaking or instability unless on a slope or in an open area. In reality, car body design emphasizes drag coefficient, optimized by engineers to reduce airflow disturbance. However, driving in strong winds remains highly dangerous and can lead to loss of control and collisions. It's advisable to reduce speed, grip the steering wheel firmly, and preferably stop and take shelter. Before driving on windy days, check your car's weight and stability—lighter vehicles carry higher risks.
