Is It Safe to Drive in Level 7 Gale?
4 Answers
6 to 7 level gale is not suitable for driving. When encountering strong crosswinds, it will affect the driving stability of the vehicle. At high speeds, the stability of the vehicle is crucial. Many drivers believe that the heavier the vehicle, the better its high-speed stability, but this is actually a misconception. The stability of a vehicle at high speeds depends on factors such as chassis tuning and aerodynamics. If the vehicle's shock absorbers are relatively soft, its stability at high speeds will be poor, even if the vehicle itself is very heavy. When driving in windy conditions, vehicles are affected by crosswinds, especially for some vans or large vehicles, as these types of vehicles have a higher overall center of gravity and larger lateral surface areas. Additionally, lighter vehicles are also very susceptible to the effects of crosswinds, and the faster the vehicle's speed, the stronger the impact of the crosswinds.
I've driven in level 7 gusty winds many times. It's doable, but requires extreme caution. With wind speeds around 30-40 km/h, the car sways like a boat on the road, especially when encountering crosswinds that easily pull the steering off course. Once on the highway at about 70 km/h, a strong gust made my car drift alarmingly - thankfully gripping the wheel tightly stabilized it. I recommend choosing more stable vehicles in such conditions; sedans handle better than SUVs since SUVs' height makes them prone to rollovers. Slow down below 50 km/h and maintain straight-line driving. Keep headlights on for better visibility so other drivers can see you clearly. If road conditions deteriorate with flying branches or debris, immediately find a safe spot to pull over. While technically drivable, it's unsuitable for long distances - short commutes are manageable provided you prioritize safety over speed.
I usually avoid driving in gale-force winds of level 7, especially when I have elderly or children with me. The strong winds make the car shake continuously, making them unable to sit steadily and causing them to feel scared; the road risks are also high, with dangers like falling utility poles or flying objects. Once, when I had to take my child to school in strong winds, I chose to take a taxi instead of driving myself. If I must drive, I first check the tires to ensure deep treads and proper pressure for better grip; I control the speed at around 40 km/h, reducing it by half on highways. Avoid placing loose items in the car and secure water cups to prevent rolling; open the window slightly to reduce wind pressure. Try to avoid open areas and choose roads with buildings for shelter. Remember to fasten seat belts tightly and keep an emergency kit ready. Safety comes first—if possible, delay the trip and wait it out.
Driving is generally safe in level 7 gale-force winds with speeds of approximately 32-38 km/h, but be mindful of physical impacts. Strong winds increase air resistance and may cause vehicle drift, so I reduced my speed to around 30 to minimize wind pressure. A car's stability depends on its weight and design—heavier vehicles are more stable, while lighter ones are more affected. Maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel to control direction. Turn on your lights in poor visibility. Avoid frequent lane changes to prevent loss of control.
