A 60 mile-per-hour (mph) wind represents a significant, tangible force of nature. This speed places the wind in the Beaufort Scale’s “Storm” category (Force 10), officially defined as a Whole Gale. Understanding this meteorological classification translates into recognizing the immediate physical sensation and potential for danger, as the sheer strength of the air transforms the environment.
The Physical Experience of 60 MPH Wind
Stepping into a sustained 60 mph wind feels less like a breeze and more like walking into a solid, moving wall. The wind exerts a powerful drag force that makes remaining upright a continuous, conscious effort. You would need to lean significantly into the wind, perhaps 30 to 45 degrees, simply to maintain your balance and avoid being pushed over.
Attempting to walk forward becomes nearly impossible, reducing progress to a slow, staggering shuffle or crawl against the pressure. The sensation on exposed skin is intense, creating a painful, stinging effect, especially if rain or fine debris is carried along. The wind chill factor also becomes extreme, stripping heat from the body rapidly and making the air feel dramatically colder.
The force is physically taxing, requiring constant muscle engagement to resist the pushing sensation, similar to being aggressively shoved. Noise is a major component of the physical experience, with the wind roaring loudly around the ears, making verbal communication difficult or impossible. This auditory assault, combined with the physical struggle, can elevate feelings of anxiety and disorientation.
Environmental Indicators and Visual Markers
The visual scene during a 60 mph wind event is chaotic, clearly signaling the destructive energy present. Large trees are subjected to extreme stress, with their trunks swaying violently and their large branches in continuous, erratic motion. At this wind speed, trees are at risk of being uprooted entirely, and considerable damage to even sturdy trees is likely.
Loose objects and debris are transformed into dangerous projectiles, including unsecured outdoor furniture, garbage cans, and smaller tree limbs flying through the air. The surface of the ground is often obscured by flying dust and leaves, reducing visibility significantly. The wind’s powerful forces are strong enough to break twigs off trees, further contributing to the airborne debris.
Safety Thresholds and Property Impact
A 60 mph wind speed is beyond the threshold for minor inconvenience and enters the range where significant property damage is expected. The force is capable of causing considerable structural damage, particularly to roofs and outbuildings. Shingles, siding, and gutters can be ripped away from houses, and poorly constructed mobile homes are at high risk of substantial damage or destruction.
For drivers, a 60 mph wind creates hazardous conditions, particularly for high-profile vehicles such as trucks, vans, and those towing trailers. The sideways force can cause vehicles to veer abruptly on the road, making control difficult. The general advice for this wind speed is to remain indoors, as the threat from flying debris, falling trees, and structural failure is substantial.