What Wind Gust Is Dangerous? The Complete Guide to Wind Damage

What wind gust is dangerous? This seemingly simple question hides the powerful threat of wind damage, which can strike any property, anywhere.

Each year, the U.S. experiences wind events that result in billions of dollars in damage, from uprooted trees to torn-off roofs and shattered windows. The U.S. experienced at least 24 climate-related disaster events in 2024, with losses exceeding $1 billion each, including 17 severe storm events and four tropical cyclones.

With severe storms now a regular occurrence, it's more important than ever to understand when wind gusts become dangerous, how to assess damage, and what steps to take for protection. Learn more about what wind gusts are dangerous and how to protect properties against them.

Table of contents:

• What Wind Speed Is Dangerous?
• Types of Wind Gusts
• Measuring Wind Damage
• 8 Tips for Protecting Properties from Wind Gusts
• Trust Rainbow Restoration^® for Wind Damage Cleanup
• FAQ About Dangerous Wind Gusts

What Wind Speed Is Dangerous?

Moderate gusts can create dangerous conditions for property, trees, and outdoor items like patio furniture, grills, umbrellas, and garden decor, which can become projectiles. Stronger winds pose serious threats to structures and overall safety.

Take a look at this wind speed chart for different wind speeds and the damage they can cause:

What wind speed is dangerous for driving?

Wind speeds of 26 mph or above can start to make travel difficult for drivers, particularly for high-profile vehicles like trucks, SUVs, and RVs, which are more likely to tip or lose control in strong gusts.

When wind speeds hit 40 mph, driving becomes significantly more dangerous, especially on open roads, where gusts can come in full force. In extreme cases of gusts over 58 mph, it’s safest to avoid driving altogether, as these speeds make it difficult for any vehicle to stay on the road.

Types of Wind Gusts

Wind gusts can vary widely in speed, duration, and impact, but they all have the potential to cause significant damage. Understanding the different types of wind gusts, such as gale-force and straight-line winds, can help people identify risks and prepare accordingly.

Gale-force winds

Gale-force winds are intense gusts that range between 39 mph and 54 mph. Commonly associated with coastal areas and open water, these winds are often caused by storm systems like low-pressure fronts, which can push powerful air masses across vast distances.

Gale-force winds are strong enough to cause property damage, particularly to roofs, windows, and unsecured outdoor items. On the water, these winds create dangerous waves and hazardous conditions for boats. The best protection against gale-force winds includes securing loose outdoor objects and reinforcing windows, especially during storm season.

Straight-line winds

Straight-line winds are powerful winds that move in a single, horizontal direction rather than rotating like tornadoes. Often resulting from downdrafts within thunderstorms, straight-line winds can reach speeds of 70 mph or more, causing damage similar to a weak tornado.

These winds can uproot trees, knock down power lines, and cause significant damage to roofs and siding. Due to their strength and direction, straight-line winds are a major threat to buildings and infrastructure.

Measuring Wind Damage

Wondering how much wind a house can withstand? Wind can affect nearly every part of a building, depending on its speed, direction, and duration.

High winds can loosen shingles, dislodge tiles, break windows, and even tear off roofs, especially if wind speeds reach dangerous levels. For example, gale-force winds can cause severe roof storm damage, making roofing materials peel away, while extreme wind gusts, such as straight-line winds, can lead to structural compromises.

The Beaufort Wind Scale helps estimate wind damage based on its speed.

Knowing different wind speeds helps property owners estimate the potential effects on their property and take steps to minimize damage before storms arrive, rather than assessing roof damage after a storm, which is often tricky and dangerous.

8 Tips for Protecting Properties From Wind Gusts

High winds and severe gusts can cause costly damage, but proactive measures can help property owners minimize the risk and prepare for severe weather conditions.

1. Invest in impact-resistant windows: Hurricane- or impact-resistant windows can withstand high-speed winds and flying debris, making them a solid choice in areas prone to storms.
2. Install reinforced doors: Strengthening entry doors with heavy-duty bolts and hinges helps them stand up against strong gusts, reducing the chance of forced openings or damage.
3. Secure outdoor items: Patio furniture, grills, and planters can become dangerous projectiles in high winds. Store these items indoors or secure them with ground anchors when winds are expected.
4. Trim trees and shrubs: Keeping trees pruned reduces the chance of falling limbs and flying debris that could harm a property’s roof, windows, or siding.
5. Roof reinforcements: Adding roof straps or clips can provide extra support to the roof, helping it withstand wind pressure and movement better.
6. Use storm shutters: Shutters can protect windows from shattering during strong gusts, which can help prevent water and wind damage indoors.
7. Consider board-up services: Board-up and tarp-over services are a great way to protect windows and doors before a storm hits.
8. Roof tarping: After a storm, roof tarping can prevent further damage to exposed areas by stabilizing damaged roofs until permanent repairs can be made.

For businesses, a commercial emergency response plan can be valuable since it helps facility managers quickly respond to wind-related emergencies, minimizing downtime and property loss.

Trust Rainbow Restoration for Wind Damage Cleanup

Knowing what wind gusts are dangerous can help property owners act quickly in the face of strong winds. That said, the aftermath of a windstorm can be overwhelming, from fallen branches to roof and siding damage. Rainbow Restoration's residential storm and wind damage restoration services can help by handling repairs efficiently, including debris removal and structural assessments.

This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Rainbow Restoration is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact the Rainbow Restoration location nearest you for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.

FAQ About Dangerous Wind Gusts

As an industry leader we believe setting the highest standards in water, fire, and mold damage restoration requires a continuous focus and dedication to education and improvement. This commitment to exceptional service also includes using our experience and expertise to answer your restoration questions.

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about wind gust damage.

What wind speed is considered windy?

Wind speeds around 15-25 mph are typically considered breezy or windy, with stronger gusts above 30 mph categorized as very windy. At these speeds, outdoor items can blow around, and trees may sway or lose smaller branches.

Can wind break windows?

Yes, strong wind gusts, particularly those above 40 mph, can cause windows to break, especially if there is flying debris. The risk of window damage increases with the wind's intensity and the presence of storms. Call Rainbow Restoration for help with post-disaster cleanup.

Are 30 mph wind gusts dangerous?

Wind gusts of 30 mph are generally not dangerous, but they can still cause minor damage, such as broken branches or loose debris. They can also pose a risk to unsecured outdoor items and may be uncomfortable for driving, particularly for high-profile vehicles.

Is it dangerous to drive in 50 mph wind gusts?

Yes, driving in 50 mph wind gusts can be dangerous, mostly for high-profile vehicles like trucks and RVs. These gusts can cause sudden changes in vehicle stability, making it harder to control, especially on open roads or bridges.