Understanding Wind Speed Damage and Storm Safety in Oklahoma
Oklahoma is no stranger to the raw power of the wind. From straight-line winds to violent tornadoes, the atmosphere in the Sooner State can turn destructive in an instant. Understanding the relationship between wind speed and physical damage is the first step toward true emergency preparedness.
At Oklahoma Shelters, we believe that education is just as important as the steel and concrete we use to build our safe rooms. When you know what a specific wind speed can do to your property, you can make better decisions about when to seek shelter.
The Wind Speed Damage Chart: What to Expect
Wind force is exponential. As the speed increases, the pressure exerted on your home and trees doesn’t just double; it intensifies significantly. Here is a breakdown of how different wind speeds affect the Oklahoma landscape.
45 to 57 MPH: Minor Disruption
While these speeds are common during spring thunderstorms, they should not be ignored.
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Vegetation: You can expect small tree branches and dead limbs to snap.
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Roofing: Loose shingles may be removed or curled.
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Property: Unsecured patio furniture or trash cans may be tossed across the yard.
58 to 74 MPH: Moderate Destruction
At this level, the wind begins to cause structural and landscape issues that require professional repair.
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Trees: Healthy trees can be uprooted, and large limbs are frequently torn down.
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Roofing: Significant shingle loss is common.
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Safety Hazard: Flying branches can break windows or dent vehicles.
75 to 89 MPH: Severe Damage
These speeds are equivalent to a Category 1 hurricane or a weak tornado. The risk to life and property increases sharply.
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Mobile Homes: Many mobile homes can be flipped or shifted off their foundations if not properly anchored.
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Structures: Severe roof damage occurs, and outbuildings like sheds may be destroyed.
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Widespread Issues: Tree damage is usually universal across the affected area, often blocking roads.
90+ MPH: Significant Structural Failure
Once winds surpass 90 MPH, standard residential construction begins to fail.
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Home Integrity: Significant damage occurs to roofs and exterior walls.
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Debris: Heavy objects become airborne missiles.
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Total Loss: In many cases, the home may become uninhabitable until major structural repairs are made.
What To Do During High Winds or Storms
Preparation is the difference between a close call and a tragedy. When the National Weather Service issues a warning for your area, follow these protocols immediately.
Move to a Safe Room Instantly
If you own a storm shelter or safe room, do not wait for the wind to pick up. Move your family, your pets, and your emergency kit into the shelter as soon as the warning is issued. Once inside, use a battery-powered weather radio or a reliable smartphone app to listen for updates.
If You Don’t Have a Safe Room
Not every home is equipped with a professional shelter yet. If you find yourself in a house without a safe room during a storm:
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Seal the Perimeter: Shut all interior and exterior doors. This helps manage the internal pressure of the house.
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Protect Windows: If you have lead time, cover windows with plywood to prevent flying glass.
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Interior Space: Move to the lowest floor, in a small interior room like a closet or bathroom. Stay away from outside walls and windows.
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Use Padding: Wear a helmet if available and use blankets or mattresses to protect yourself from potential falling debris.
What To Do After The Storm Calms Down
Once the sky clears and the local authorities give the “all clear,” your focus shifts to recovery and assessment. Safety remains the priority even after the wind stops.
Step 1: Check the Exterior
Walk around your home and look for visible signs of damage.
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Roof Inspection: Check for missing shingles, damaged flashing, or holes caused by falling branches.
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Yard Cleanup: Safely remove debris from your yard. Watch out for downed power lines; never touch a wire, even if you think it is “dead.”
Step 2: Check the Interior
Sometimes the worst damage is hidden.
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Identify Leaks: Check your attic and ceilings for water spots or active drips.
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Wall Discoloration: Look for yellowing or bubbling on drywall, which indicates water has entered the wall cavity.
Step 3: Call for a Professional Inspection
If you suspect structural damage or roof issues, call a professional. A trained inspector can find issues that a homeowner might miss, such as structural shifts or compromised load-bearing walls.
Step 4: Submit an Insurance Claim
Document everything. Take high-resolution photos of all damage before you start cleaning up. Contact your insurance provider immediately to start the claims process. Having a clear record of the “after” state of your home is vital for a fair settlement.
Why Engineering Matters in Oklahoma
The wind speeds mentioned above create forces that standard 2×4 framing was never meant to handle. Tornadoes, in particular, create a “missile effect” where everyday objects—like 2×4 boards, stones, or pieces of metal—are launched at high speeds.
At Oklahoma Shelters, our products are not just “boxes.” They are highly engineered safety systems.
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Tested Strength: Our shelters are tested at the Texas Tech National Wind Institute.
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Debris Resistance: We ensure our walls and doors can withstand the impact of flying debris common in EF-4 and EF-5 tornadoes.
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Force Distribution: Our anchoring systems are designed to keep the shelter attached to the concrete slab, even if the rest of the house is swept away.
Protect Your Family with Oklahoma Shelters
Don’t wait until the wind hits 90 MPH to realize you need a better plan. Oklahoma’s weather is unpredictable, but your safety doesn’t have to be. Whether you are interested in an underground garage shelter, an above-ground steel safe room, or a concrete bunker, we have a solution that fits your home and your budget.
Our storm shelters are engineered and tested to withstand the forces of extreme wind and flying debris as a result of these tornadoes.
Contact Us Today
Ready to secure your peace of mind? Reach out to our team for a consultation.
