Is driving affected by a level 7 wind?
3 Answers
Driving in strong winds is dangerous. It is recommended not to drive in a level 8 wind. A level 8 wind refers to wind speeds of 17.2 to 20.4 meters per second. Whether it can blow a car away depends on the car's weight, shape, and wind-exposed area. For example, an unloaded small van with its side exposed to the wind could be blown away instantly, whereas a heavily loaded large truck would remain as steady as a mountain. Additional information is as follows: Strong wind: refers to wind forces reaching level 8 or above on the Beaufort scale near the ground layer. According to China's meteorological observation standards, instantaneous wind speeds reaching or exceeding 17 meters per second are considered strong winds.
Driving in a level 7 wind is definitely challenging. With years of driving experience, I can say that strong winds make the car sway noticeably, especially on highways where the steering wheel tends to feel unstable—almost as if someone is pushing the car. In such conditions, extra caution is crucial: keep both hands firmly on the wheel, avoid high speeds, and ideally reduce your speed to below 70-80 km/h. Additionally, strong winds stir up dust, dirtying the windshield and impairing visibility, requiring frequent use of the wipers. Parking becomes tricky too—doors might slam shut from the wind, risking hand injuries; I’ve seen a friend injure their fingers this way. If the wind is too intense, it’s best to find a safe spot to wait it out. Bottom line: safety first—never underestimate the impact of a level 7 wind.
Driving in a level 7 wind definitely has an impact. My small sedan feels particularly unsteady on windy days, with the steering feeling light and floaty, making it harder to drive and more fuel-consuming. In the city, it usually feels fine, but on highways or open roads, the car body sways when the wind blows, which can be nerve-wracking. I’ve tried driving in such weather, and the increased wind resistance makes the fuel gauge drop noticeably faster, costing more in fuel. Additionally, strong winds can send branches and leaves flying, potentially hitting the windows—once, it nearly broke my windshield, requiring a replacement. I recommend taking tunnels or avoiding wind-prone routes, maintaining a safe distance from the car ahead. In short, you can adapt, but don’t push your luck—it’s dangerous.
