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Structures in Florida are built to withstand a certain amount of stress or pressure. The majority of newer buildings are what you could consider "hurricane proof". Florida has better than most drainage system and the land is flat. It is easy to determine whether a certain "Category" of storm would have more impact than another mostly because they are classified by wind speeds. 95 mph wind is not all that concerning; when it gets to 100+ mph wind (of a Category 3), thats when you can prepare to evacuate (that's if you are in newer residences/structures.)
I think it's safe to assume the majority of the damaged homes in the Northeast were not built subsequent to 2002...the year of implementation of the requirement:
Most of the damaged homes weren't damaged directly by wind but by trees or debris hitting home. Better windows don't help if a tree falls on your roof. Storm surge was the biggest cause of destruction and it's difficult to built houses to withstand storm surge. Few homes in the region were built 2002 and later, damaged and undamaged.
Yes because the assumption only applies to certain geographies or areas. People of Florida should generally know what types of effects would result just by knowing the Category size of the storm. People in the Northeast should have an understanding of what to expect as well...all it takes is a little bit of thinking.
I find it surprising how many American houses are surrounded by big trees. The apartments I had in the states had 100 ft + Pines/firs around them. Wind and fire risk, as well as increased winter shading doesn't seem to bother people as much there. Not to mention pesky rats, possums and cicadas.
Yeah I practically live in the woods. We lost an oak tree and several pine trees. I didn't get a chance to take pictures, but I'll do so tomorrow.
My neighbor's entire sun room was ripped off by a tree and my grandfather's back roof was drapped over the front of the house. The upstairs is going to have to get gutted due to water damage.
For the most part, there is a world of difference in trees and fauna between Florida and ,;. The North has hardwood trees, maples, oaks, with heavy branch systems. Trees in Florida do not have the heavy structure of Northern trees. Makes sense that there would be more damage from trees, although I think more people should pay attention to maintaining their own "urban" forest, keeping heavy limbs trimmed, topping trees each year. Some people do, some don't. Many homes in Florida don't have basements, common in the North. And construction is usually cement slab with cinder block walls, covered with sheet rock, contrast to wooden homes, or brick and glass in North.
I know this much, I would rather have a miserable storm in Florida, where it is 75 degrees, than a miserable storm where it is chilly, and wet. No thanks.
It's amazing how out of whack everything is here. The governor has issued an executive order rationing gasoline. People are waiting on line for hours at the few gas stations that are open. Yesterday I had to vote at the county's clerk's office since I won't have enough gas to drive from home to school and back to home to vote on Election Day. I don't like voting that way, but I had no choice. Power and traffic lights are still out and some may still be out for another week. Can't wait until there's a sense of normalcy around here. On the bright side, everyone is helping out those who need it.
Of course these problems are small potatoes compared to the folks who have lost their homes and lives.
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