Although buildings were not originally built to resist wind, today’s modern designs incorporate some wind-resistant features. Wind-resistant elements can include connections between house elements and the foundation. Some of these features are described in booklets under the heading “Protecting your house.”
To protect your home from the effects of high winds, strengthen exterior walls and doors. When these elements are compromised, high winds can push your vehicle outside its lane of travel. High-profile vehicles are more susceptible to being flipped. Pull onto the shoulder of the road and stay in your vehicle until the wind subsides. This way, you won’t be hit by flying debris. Windy weather can cause a lot of damage. And remember, it may take more than just strong winds to cause significant damage.
While most wind-resistant materials can withstand a 10 to 15 mph breeze, the actual pressure can vary. Elevation, temperature, and other variables can affect the actual wind pressure. Wind-resistant fabrics are less dense than the surrounding air and will have less pressure for any given wind speed. If you’re worried about being blown off course by a strong breeze, it’s best to wear clothing with some elasticity to accommodate the wind.
If you have a garden, consider using a cloche. This time-honored method of protecting young plants from strong winds is also effective. They were originally made of glass but now are usually plastic. Historically, cloches resembled bells. Using an empty clear plastic bottle for your cloche will save you time and money, and your plants will thank you for it! But, if you don’t want to spend a lot of money, try using a plastic bottle.