Is It Safe to Drive in Level 8 Wind?
4 Answers
It is possible to go out in level 8 wind, but protective measures should be taken. Here are some precautions for driving: 1. Slow down and observe when turning: Develop the habit of slowing down when turning (especially when intersecting with non-motorized lanes or sidewalks). Observe the situation in non-motorized lanes and sidewalks, and pass through slowly. This applies both in urban and suburban areas. Actively yield to electric bikes in non-motorized lanes and pedestrians on sidewalks. When making a right turn in the city, yield to pedestrians and electric bikes on crosswalks, and only proceed slowly after confirming there will be no accidents. 2. Slow down and look both ways at intersections: Develop the habit of looking left and right (while slowing down) when crossing an intersection, regardless of whether there is a traffic light or if your lane has a green light. Observe the traffic situation on the crossing road, and only accelerate through the intersection after confirming there are no vehicles rushing through (also watch out for electric bikes, as their small size makes them easy to overlook).
I've driven for many years and experienced my share of windy days. An 8-level wind is quite strong—it can snap tree branches that may fall on cars or send debris flying on the road, posing significant hazards. If I really need to drive out, I keep my speed very low, usually under 60 km/h, and maintain a long following distance to prevent sudden braking. The car body may sway in the wind, especially when turning, making it prone to drifting, so I grip the steering wheel firmly and avoid sharp turns. Checking tire tread and pressure is crucial, as insufficient grip increases the risk of skidding. Additionally, visibility is poor, so I turn on fog lights for better illumination but avoid high beams to prevent glare. If the wind is too strong, I choose to postpone the trip or use alternative transportation for peace of mind—safe driving is a responsibility to oneself.
As a newly licensed driver, the thought of driving in 8-level winds is quite daunting. When the wind is strong, it feels like the car could be blown away, and with trees falling and debris flying, accidents are common—it's too risky to drive out. I've seen many online cases of wind-related car accidents, which makes me hesitant; I'd rather call a ride-hailing service or take the bus. If I absolutely must drive, I’ll slow down to under 40 km/h, stay highly focused on scanning the road, and be ready to stop at any moment. Strong winds can also affect braking distance and vehicle control, and inexperienced drivers might panic easily—it’s better to wait until the wind dies down. Safety comes first; don’t ignore these potential hazards just to save time.
When it comes to taking care of my family, I never take risks driving in strong winds. Winds at level 8 can blow objects away, and if something hits the car, it could endanger everyone inside—especially when traveling with elderly or children, I’m even more cautious. I’d recommend waiting for the wind to die down or switching to public transport. During high winds, road conditions can change unpredictably, making driving stressful and not worth the risk. Keep an emergency kit in the car just in case, but it’s best not to drive at all. Protecting loved ones is the top priority, so avoid unnecessary risks.
