Premier Date: July 26, 2006
busted
In order for this to happen, the whirlpool would have to be significantly stronger than any maelstrom ever recorded.
busted
In order for this to happen, the whirlpool would have to be significantly stronger than any maelstrom ever recorded.
plausible
A whirlpool can generate a vortex large enough to pull down a swimmer and, especially if combined with the effects of dizziness and disorientation, induce drowning. The MythBusters only tested according to the most powerful maelstrom ever recorded, and did not determine the minimum size needed to submerge a swimmer.
busted
Even a worst-case scenario – an unusually large plow passing by a light, top-heavy sports utility vehicle at highway speed – could not generate the air pressure needed to cause the SUV to even visibly tip. A semi driving at highway speeds only generates about 1/6th of the air pressure needed to make this myth plausible.
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