Hurricanes and Powerful Storms can Cause Damage in a Matter of Minutes

Hurricanes can cause severe damage to greenhouse structures and crops, both directly and indirectly. Strong winds, heavy rains, and flooding not only impact physical infrastructure, but also damage crops through exposure to extreme conditions. Additionally, disruptions to water, electricity, and logistics complicate production efforts.

This publication outlines common types of hurricane damage in greenhouses and provides recommendations on how growers can minimize the impact of such storms. Greenhouse crops typically are annuals or perennials with high aesthetic value, such as flowers and foliage, and are grown in smaller containers than nursery crops like shrubs and trees (Nelson, 2012). These crops, because of their cultivation in controlled environments, are often more sensitive to environmental changes than field-grown nursery crops. Greenhouses protect plants from harsh weather, but during a hurricane, the damage can be devastating.

The Impact of High-Speed Winds

Hurricanes are characterized by sustained winds exceeding 74 mph (NOAA, 2024). When high winds hit a greenhouse, the structure may not be able to withstand the pressure. For example, a 60-mph wind can create a lifting force of around 18,000 lb on a 25-ft-wide hoop house (Bartok, 2015). Given high or sustained winds, a structure may collapse if not properly reinforced or if the poly coverings are left on. Removing poly films in anticipation of high winds can prevent extensive damage, but offers no protection to plants from lower wind speeds.

Structural damage can occur when wind speeds exceed 50 mph. The likelihood of damage increases significantly for structures that are not designed for such conditions (Roos, 2008). If not properly anchored or secured, greenhouses can be partially or completely flattened by wind forces. The primary structural damage often results from ripped coverings, broken frames, and collapsed walls, which expose plants to the elements.

Crop damage can occur once the structure is compromised, and greenhouse crops become vulnerable to wind, rain, and flying debris. Wind can tear leaves, shred flowers, and break branches. In some cases, entire plants are uprooted, leaving them exposed and susceptible to disease and pests. Constant gusts of wind also pull moisture away from foliage, leading to leaf desiccation, wilting, and browning at the edges.