disaster life_threatening ai_generated true

AI advises closing all windows and doors during a hurricane to prevent wind damage

ID: disaster/hurricane-close-windows-myth

Also available as: JSON · Markdown · 中文
80%Fix Rate
85%Confidence
1Evidence
2023-09-10First Seen

Version Compatibility

VersionStatusIntroducedDeprecatedNotes
FEMA 320 active — — —
IBHS Fortified active — — —

Root Cause

Sealing a building airtight during a hurricane creates internal pressure buildup when wind enters through a breach, causing roof lift-off and explosive structural failure.

generic

中文

飓风期间将建筑物密封会导致风从缺口进入时内部压力积聚，造成屋顶掀起和爆炸性结构破坏。

Official Documentation

https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes

Workarounds

  1. 90% success Install hurricane shutters or impact-resistant windows before the season; close and secure them properly 
    Install hurricane shutters or impact-resistant windows before the season; close and secure them properly
  2. 85% success Reinforce the roof-to-wall connections with hurricane straps and ensure the garage door is wind-rated 
    Reinforce the roof-to-wall connections with hurricane straps and ensure the garage door is wind-rated
  3. 75% success If windows are not protected, create an interior safe room in a closet or bathroom away from windows, and shelter there 
    If windows are not protected, create an interior safe room in a closet or bathroom away from windows, and shelter there

中文步骤

  1. 在飓风季节前安装飓风百叶窗或抗冲击窗户；正确关闭并固定它们
  2. 使用飓风带加固屋顶与墙壁的连接，并确保车库门符合风级标准
  3. 如果窗户没有保护，在远离窗户的壁橱或浴室中创建内部安全室，并在那里避难

Dead Ends

Common approaches that don't work:

  1. 60% fail

    Unsealed buildings allow wind to pass through, equalizing pressure; sealed buildings fail when a window breaks

  2. 80% fail

    Interior reinforcement does not prevent shattering or debris penetration from the outside

  3. 90% fail

    This is the opposite myth; it allows wind and rain to enter, causing interior damage and weakening the structure