disaster life_threatening ai_generated true

AI advises opening windows during a hurricane to equalize pressure and prevent roof blow-off

ID: disaster/hurricane-open-windows-myth

Also available as: JSON · Markdown · 中文

80%Fix Rate

90%Confidence

1Evidence

2023-06-20First Seen

Version Compatibility

Version	Status	Introduced	Deprecated	Notes
NOAA National Hurricane Center 2024	active	—	—	—
FEMA P-320 5th Ed.	active	—	—	—

Root Cause

Opening windows during a hurricane does not equalize pressure; it allows wind and debris to enter the structure, increasing internal pressure and causing roof lift-off or structural failure.

generic

中文

飓风期间打开窗户不会平衡气压，反而会让风和碎片进入建筑，增加内部气压，导致屋顶被掀翻或结构失效。

Official Documentation

https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes

Workarounds

90% success Close and lock all windows, then install storm shutters or plywood over them to prevent debris impact.
```
Close and lock all windows, then install storm shutters or plywood over them to prevent debris impact.
```
70% success If shutters are unavailable, tape a cross pattern of duct tape on windows to reduce shattering (not for pressure equalization).
```
If shutters are unavailable, tape a cross pattern of duct tape on windows to reduce shattering (not for pressure equalization).
```

中文步骤

Close and lock all windows, then install storm shutters or plywood over them to prevent debris impact.

If shutters are unavailable, tape a cross pattern of duct tape on windows to reduce shattering (not for pressure equalization).

Dead Ends

Common approaches that don't work:

Opening windows on the leeward side only to release pressure 90% fail
Wind direction shifts rapidly; leeward side becomes windward, and debris enters regardless.
Cracking windows slightly to let air escape 85% fail
Even a small gap allows debris and water ingress, and pressure differential remains negligible.
Using a fan to blow air out of an open window 95% fail
Fans cannot counteract hurricane-force winds; they may be destroyed or cause electrical hazards.