Could a hurricane knock over a skyscraper?

A hurricane is a powerful force of nature that can cause extensive damage to buildings and infrastructure. While most skyscrapers are designed to withstand high winds, there is always the potential for one to be knocked over by a hurricane. In the event of a hurricane, the first line of defense for a skyscraper is its windows. Strong, impact-resistant windows are crucial for protecting against flying debris and high winds. However, even the strongest windows can be shattered by hurricane-force winds, which can then cause the rest of the structure to collapse. Another factor that contributes to a skyscraper's stability during a hurricane is its foundation. A skyscraper's foundation must be able to withstand the tremendous force of the wind and waves. If the foundation is not strong enough, the entire structure can be toppled. Finally, the way a skyscraper is constructed can also play a role in its ability to withstand a hurricane. For example, a skyscraper that is built with a central core will be more stable than one that does not have a central core. This is because the central core helps to evenly distribute the weight of the structure, which makes it less likely to topple over. While most skyscrapers are designed to withstand the force of a hurricane, there is always the potential for one to be knocked over. However, by taking precautions such as installing impact-resistant windows and building a strong foundation, the chances of a skyscraper being toppled by a hurricane can be greatly reduced.