Can Hurricanes Pick You Up? Debunking the Myth

Hurricanes are powerful storms that can cause widespread destruction and loss of life. While hurricanes are known for their strong winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges, a common myth surrounds the idea that they can literally “pick you up” and toss you around like a rag doll. But is this claim based in reality or is it simply a product of overactive imaginations?

The answer lies in the science of hurricanes. Hurricanes are formed when a tropical disturbance develops over warm ocean waters, causing the air to rise and create a low-pressure system. As the storm strengthens, the winds around the eye begin to rotate, creating the characteristic spiral shape of a hurricane. The winds in the outside bands of the storm can be incredibly strong, reaching speeds of over 100 mph (161 kph), but can they actually pick you up and lift you off the ground?

The short answer is no, hurricanes cannot pick you up and carry you away like a toy. The winds in a hurricane are strong, but they are not capable of creating a vacuum-like effect that would allow them to lift a person off the ground. In fact, the strength of the winds would actually prevent this from happening.

To understand why, let’s examine what would need to happen for a hurricane to pick you up. In order for a wind to lift you off the ground, it would need to create a pressure difference of about 1 atmosphere (1013 mbar) between the top of your head and the ground. This is because the wind would need to generate enough lift to overcome the weight of your body. However, the strongest winds in a hurricane would only create a pressure difference of around 0.1-0.2 atmospheres (10-20 mbar). This is nowhere near enough to lift a person off the ground.

But what about reports of people getting swept away or lifted off the ground during hurricanes? These claims are likely exaggerated or the result of mistaken eyewitness accounts. In reality, the high winds in a hurricane can cause debris to be lifted off the ground, including objects as large as cars and buildings. However, the wind itself cannot lift a person off the ground.

Despite the myth-busting, it’s important to take hurricane warnings seriously and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones. Hurricanes are powerful storms that can cause significant damage and it’s crucial to prepare for the worst-case scenario. By staying informed, having a plan in place, and following evacuation orders, you can minimize your risk of injury or harm.

In conclusion, while hurricanes are powerful and destructive, they cannot literally “pick you up” and toss you around like a rag doll. The strength of the winds in a hurricane is impressive, but it’s not capable of creating a vacuum-like effect that would allow it to lift a person off the ground. By understanding the science behind hurricanes, we can better prepare for these powerful storms and stay safe during the storm.