Strongest Sustained Wind Speed Recorded in Louisiana is Scary

(KTDY) - With Hurricane Isaias in the Gulf, I was looking at potential wind speeds once it makes landfall, and then I thought about what the strongest wind speed ever recorded in Louisiana is.

While Isaias poses no threat to Louisiana, you always have to consider the potential damage any storm can cause, and much of that comes from wind.

So, while Louisiana may not be impacted by the winds Isaias produces to the east of us, we've had our share of wind events here, and we know just how much damage wind can do once speeds reach hurricane levels.

The strongest wind speeds recorded in the Bayou State actually occurred on three separate occasions, during three separate storms.

According to NBC 5 Dallas, the strongest sustained wind speeds recorded in Louisiana occurred during Hurricane Laura (2020), Hurricane Ida (2021), and during the Last Island Hurricane (1856).

Strongest Wind Speed in Louisiana

Wind speeds during those three storms reached 150 mph, the highest recorded. The highest wind gusts documented in Louisiana reached 172 mph on instruments mounted on a ship in Port Fourchon during Hurricane Ida.

I recall watching live shots on television during Hurricane Ida, and it looked like that part of the state would be wiped off the map. The images were frightening, and those who lived through it said it was the scariest thing they've ever experienced.

Damage Due to Wind Speeds

If you're curious how strong winds can damage a house, wind speeds of 30 to 40 mph can cause minor damage, while 40 to 54 mph can cause moderate damage to the exterior.

At hurricane-force speeds of 74 to 95 mph, winds can cause extensive damage to a house's roof. At 100 mph and above 130 mph, a home's structure is in jeopardy; walls can begin to give, compromising the entire structure.

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So, the next time a storm threatens Louisiana- and it will happen again- monitor conditions and wind speeds as the storm approaches, and always listen to local authorities about evacuations.

When Hurricane Season Ends

Hurricane season officially ends on November 30th.