Are Hurricane-Proof Houses Possible? Facts, Myths, and What Works
In the realm of catastrophe-proofing residential spaces, the concept of a hurricane-proof house has long been a topic of fascination and debate. This article aims to demystify the notion of such homes, exploring what makes a house hurricane-resistant, the realities of living through a storm, and the limitations of current technology and design.
Living Through a Hurricane: A First-Hand Account
My experience living in Florida for 60 years offers a unique perspective on the reality of hurricane-proof housing. While there are structures that can withstand 180 MPH winds and incorporate other impressive features like concrete blocks and impact windows, these homes are not truly hurricane-proof in the full sense. The lack of basic utilities like electricity and water during a storm can make staying in a home virtually unlivable. Even the most robust structures require survival supplies and alternative methods of staying safe.
The Myth of Underground Houses
The idea of an underground house (earth-sheltered homes) as a hurricane-proof solution is intriguing, but not feasible in most areas prone to hurricanes. The sandy and often unstable soil in places like Florida makes constructing underground homes challenging and potentially dangerous. The primary benefit of underground homes—protection from wind damage—does not fully negate the risks of flooding and storm surges that are characteristic of hurricanes.
Designing for Survival
Despite the challenges, there are innovative approaches to creating homes that can withstand the harsh realities of a hurricane. North Carolina-based prefab home builder Deltec has designed a home that is built to withstand hurricanes. In the season finale of Home of the Future on The Verge and Curbed, they showcased a Deltec home's performance during Hurricane Harvey. The video highlights the basic survival properties of the dome structure. An advanced commercial version is called the Impervious Dome.
The Limits of Hurricane-Proofing
While advanced construction techniques can offer significant protection against wind damage, the reality is that no house is completely immune to the effects of a hurricane. Flooding and storm surge, caused by rising water levels, pose the greatest threat to homes, regardless of their structural integrity. Every house will flood when the water level exceeds the ground floor height. Storm surges, driven by strong winds, can be particularly devastating. They often cause more damage and fatalities than wind damage.
Conclusion: While it is possible to design homes that can withstand the wind of a hurricane, the bigger challenge lies in protecting against flooding and storm surges. Survival during a hurricane also depends on having adequate emergency supplies, alternative power sources, and a preparedness plan. The quest for a truly hurricane-proof house is ongoing, with continued advancements and innovative solutions evolving to better protect homeowners.