Can Hurricanes Pick Up Cars?

Hurricanes are powerful storms that can cause widespread destruction and chaos. As the storm approaches, people often wonder what to expect and how to prepare for its impact. One common concern is whether hurricanes can pick up cars, leaving them floating in the air or tossed around like toys. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide some insight into the forces that drive hurricanes.

The Science Behind Hurricanes

Hurricanes are rotating storm systems that form over warm ocean waters. They are fueled by the heat and moisture from these waters, which causes the air to rise and create an area of low pressure. As the air rises, it cools, and the water vapor condenses, forming clouds and releasing heat, which in turn fuels the storm. The rotation of the storm is caused by the Coriolis effect, which is the apparent deflection of moving objects on Earth due to the planet’s rotation.

Can Hurricanes Pick Up Cars?

In short, no, hurricanes cannot pick up cars. While hurricanes can generate powerful winds that can lift small objects, such as trash cans or debris, cars are much too heavy for them to lift off the ground.

Winds generated by hurricanes can reach speeds of over 150 miles per hour (240 km/h), which is strong enough to cause significant damage to structures and objects on the ground. However, the winds are not strong enough to lift cars off the ground or pick them up like toys.

What Happens to Cars During a Hurricane?

While hurricanes cannot pick up cars, they can still cause damage to vehicles in several ways:

1. Wind-borne debris: Falling trees, branches, and other debris can damage cars, causing dents, scratches, and broken windows.
2. Flooding: Hurricanes often bring heavy rainfall, which can cause flooding in low-lying areas. Cars abandoned in standing water can be damaged or destroyed.
3. Flying objects: Strong winds can pick up small objects, such as trash cans, trash bags, and loose outdoor furniture, which can cause damage to cars.
4. Looting: In the aftermath of a hurricane, looters may target cars, breaking into them or stealing valuables.

Preparation and Safety Tips

To minimize damage to your car during a hurricane, follow these preparation and safety tips:

1. Move to a safe location: If the storm is severe enough, consider moving your car to a safe location, such as a parking garage or elevated area.
2. Cover your car: Cover your car with a waterproof cover or tarp to protect it from wind-borne debris and flooding.
3. Secure outdoor furniture and decorations: Bring inside or secure outdoor furniture, decorations, and loose objects that could become projectiles in strong winds.
4. Avoid driving: Avoid driving during the storm if possible. If you must drive, exercise extreme caution and follow evacuation routes and instructions from authorities.
5. Stay informed: Monitor weather updates and follow evacuation orders to ensure your safety and avoid damage to your car.

In conclusion, while hurricanes are powerful storms, they are not capable of picking up cars. However, they can still cause significant damage to vehicles through other means, such as wind-borne debris, flooding, and looting. By taking the necessary precautions and following safety tips, you can minimize the risk of damage to your car and stay safe during a hurricane.