In May 2026, a few prefab, or mobile homes, are facing the “Wall of Wind,” a technology out of Florida International University (FIU) capable of generating Category 5 strength gusts. Held down by a few anchors, testing how and when these homes fail is the point of the study. What they teach us can improve the safety of millions living in low-cost housing in an era of worsening storms and hurricanes.
Although mobile homes are especially vulnerable to natural disasters, their building requirements have not kept up with climate change. Their housing requirements are determined by outdated building codes set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Results from the study inform researchers and government agencies what structures across Wind Zones 1, 2, and 3 (70, 100, 110 mph winds respectively) require life-saving modifications.
