A Category 14 typhoon can blow away a car. Different cars have varying abilities to withstand typhoons, but generally, cars can endure winds from Category 12 to Category 14 typhoons. It's best to avoid driving during a typhoon. If driving is necessary, slow down and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. Ideally, park your car in an underground garage or in an open, unobstructed area. Avoid parking under billboards, trees, or temporary structures.
How Strong of a Wind Can a Car Withstand?
The level of wind a car can withstand depends on its weight, shape, and wind-exposed surface area. For example, an unloaded small box truck, with its side exposed to the wind, can easily be blown away. However, a heavily loaded truck remains stable. Generally, sedans are better at resisting typhoons compared to SUVs because sedans have a lower center of gravity, are shorter in height, and have better grip on the ground.
Additionally, the ability of a moving car to resist a typhoon is different from that of a stationary car. A moving car, being in motion, is less resistant to typhoons compared to a stationary car due to the relationship between motion and wind force. A stationary car can typically withstand a Category 14 typhoon, while a moving car may lose control in a Category 12 typhoon, especially when the wind is blowing from the side, increasing the risk of a rollover accident.
