Is it safe to drive on the highway during a level 7 gale?
1 Answers
It is advisable not to drive during a level 7 to 8 gale as it poses significant risks. Specifically, driving in a level 8 gale is strongly discouraged. A level 8 gale refers to wind speeds ranging from 17.2 to 20.4 meters per second. Whether a vehicle can be blown away depends on factors such as the vehicle's weight, shape, and wind-exposed area. For instance, an unloaded small van with its side exposed to the wind could be blown away instantly, whereas a heavily loaded large truck would remain stable as a rock. Additional information: A gale is defined as wind reaching or exceeding level 8 on the Beaufort scale (average wind speed of 17.2-20.7 meters per second) near the ground layer. According to China's meteorological observation standards, instantaneous wind speeds reaching or exceeding 17 meters per second (or visually estimated wind force reaching or exceeding level 8) are classified as gales. A day with such wind conditions is referred to as a gale day. In China's weather forecasting operations, winds at level 6 or above on the Beaufort scale (average wind speed of 10.8-13.8 meters per second) are considered gales.