Straight-line wind damage is the most common form of wind damage and is the sixth most damaging type of severe weather event in the United States. Straight-line wind damage is a term used to define any thunderstorm wind not associated with rotation found in a tornado or hurricane. Damaging winds are classified as those exceeding 50 mph and usually occur during the spring and early summer. The geographic region that experiences the most straight-line winds is the Mid-West and South East regions.
Straight-line and tornado damage can be difficult to differentiate as some straight-line winds exceed 100 mph. Experts at Forum can identify the signs of damage and weather events to determine the exact cause. Below, our team has provided information identifying the types, typical damages, and preventative measures in the event of a straight-line wind encounter.
Straight-Line Winds
For wind damage to be considered straight-line winds, they must exceed 50 mph and are not associated with rotation. There are many types of straight-line winds that are determined by force and where and how they form in the atmosphere.
Down-Burst: Caused by a rapidly falling rain in a singular storm cell that is significantly cooler in temperature than surface level. Wind speeds are much higher than generalized straight-line winds and usually exceed 100 mph.
Gust Front: A gust front occurs when warmer rain is met with a cooler surface temperature. This phenomenon pushes air above and in front of the storm system and usually produces weaker winds as compared to a down-burst of derecho.
Derecho: Caused by the merging of multiple storm cells and range width from 20-65 miles. These types of straight-line winds can reach up to 150 mph and are extremely damaging due to the size and reach of the storm system. Derechos are also known for producing large tornados.
Signs of Straight-Line Wind Damage
Straight-line winds are known for producing gusts of wind that cause "sideways rain" and damage patterns with a compact debris field where damage runs parallel. Straight-line wind damage can damage properties considerably, but it is relatively minor compared to tornados or hurricanes. Typical straight-line wind damage can include:
- Fallen trees faced the same direction.
- Missing or curling shingles and granule loss.
- Structural roof damage.
- Window or door damage from wind-borne debris.
- Damaged soffit or fascia.
- Damaged or bent aluminum structures.
- Missing siding.
- Water intrusion due to initial wind damage.
It is recommended that every property that experiences wind damage is thoroughly inspected to avoid overseen issues that may cause a threat to the structure. If wind damage is ignored, it can cause problems in the future, and further damage will arise in the event of another storm.
Mitigating Straight-Line Wind Damage
Unpredictable is the most accurate word to describe any wind damage, whether straight-line or not. Taking precautions and proper preparation before the storm can save on repair costs and time. Although wind damage can't be prevented, ways to mitigate wind damage include:
- Trim trees and shrubs.
- Bring in outdoor furniture or secure it to the foundation.
- Cover your windows with storm shutters.
- Reinforce garage doors.
- Proper maintenance on your roof and fencing.
- Clear drains and gutters to allow for adequate drainage.
Taking the proper precautions during storm season in your geographic region can potentially reduce damage in a wind event.
Forum Forensic engineering professionals are ready to assess the damages of straight-line winds on residential and commercial structures. Destruction may not always be apparent to the naked eye and sometimes requires further investigation to ensure the security of a home or business. Contact our team in the event of a straight-line wind event or any other natural disaster today.
