top of page
Search

When the wind reached 197 km/h

The Story of a 9M Dome That Withstood Storm Kristin


On January 28, 2026, Storm Kristin swept across Portugal with unusual violence. Gusts reached close to 200 km/h, leaving a trail of destruction from Central-North Portugal inland toward the Spanish border. The storm caused damaged buildings, uprooted trees, blocked roads, and power outages lasting for hours. The country declared a state of calamity in the affected region.



In that scenario, our 9M geodesic dome remained standing.



A Family, A New Beginning



Alan Ghunim and his family arrived from Damascus more than ten years ago. Like many families who migrate, they sought stability, safety, and the chance to build something of their own. They chose Portugal to start anew.


Their dream? To develop a small farm based on permaculture principles. They envisioned a self-sufficient life, a connection to the land, and a living space integrated with nature. The 9M dome became an essential part of that project. On the night of the storm, they felt fear. But they also held onto hope.



The Technical Context: Why It Withstood the Storm


This was not a matter of luck. It was a case of engineering aligned with its environment.


Dome Specifications

  • Diameter: 9 meters

  • Frequency: V3

  • Structure: Galvanized steel tube Ø32 mm

  • Thickness: 1.5 mm

  • Structural Connection: 12 mm bolting


The geodesic form distributes wind loads uniformly through structural triangles. There are no large flat surfaces where wind can create extreme differential pressure, as commonly happens with conventional buildings or lightweight prefabricated structures. While many standard structures are designed to withstand little more than 100 km/h, this storm officially recorded gusts close to 200 km/h, according to Euronews.



What Actually Happened?


Throughout the night, the wind battered the region. Electricity was cut off. Trees fell. Buildings suffered structural damage. This was a rare event. There is record of a similar phenomenon about 85 years ago, in 1941, known as the “Cyclone of 1941”, which also caused major devastation in the region. The wind gusts broke the previous national record of 176.4 km/h registered in Figueira da Foz during Storm Leslie in 2018.


The dome was not affected by the wind itself. The only damage occurred when a tree fell directly onto the structure. The PVC cover remained completely intact, with no perforations or tears. The deformation affected only part of the metal frame.


That detail is crucial:

  • The wind did not compromise the structure.

  • There were no anchoring failures.

  • There was no detachment of the cover.

  • The impact came from an external element.



Client Testimony


"I am a client of The Dome Shop in my area. We experienced winds of 197 km/h during the hurricane, and our dome was not affected by the storm itself. The only damage occurred when a tree fell onto it. The plastic covering remained intact with no holes at all; only the metal structure was bent. Amazing quality. Thank you, Nico Spenza."

After the storm, Alan and his family felt satisfaction and gratitude. The investment that represented stability for their life project had proven itself under extreme conditions.



More Than a Structure: Resilience


This case is not only about wind resistance. It is about coherence between structural design, material quality, and an appropriate anchoring system. It is about engineering conceived for real-world environments.


And it is also about something deeper: the ability to build shelter even when the environment becomes hostile. For Alan and his family, the dome was not just a construction. It was proof that their new beginning in Portugal was built on solid foundations.


The Future of Geodesic Domes


As we look to the future, the potential for geodesic domes expands. These structures are not just resilient; they are versatile. They can serve as homes, event spaces, and even classrooms. Imagine a dome nestled in the forest, providing a unique learning environment for alternative schools.


With the rise of glamping, these domes offer an eco-friendly alternative to traditional camping. They blend comfort with nature, allowing people to experience the outdoors without sacrificing luxury.


Sustainability and Customization


One of the best features of geodesic domes is their sustainability. Made from durable materials, they can withstand harsh weather while minimizing their environmental impact. Plus, they are customizable! You can choose colors, sizes, and layouts to fit your needs.


Whether you're an individual looking for a unique living space or an event organizer seeking a standout venue, geodesic domes are the answer. They provide a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics.


Conclusion


In conclusion, the story of the 9M dome that withstood Storm Kristin is a testament to the power of innovative design and engineering. It showcases how these structures can provide safety and comfort in even the most challenging conditions.


So, if you're considering a unique space solution, look no further than geodesic domes. They are not just structures; they are a lifestyle choice. Embrace the future with a dome that stands strong against the elements!

 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page