Hurricane simulator can create waves and winds of a Category 5

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MIAMI, FLORIDA — Researchers at the University of Miami have unveiled their one of kind hurricane simulator.  The new facility can generate both ocean currents and wavees in addition to powerful winds.

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The simulator is called "Sustain" and it can ramp up a storm inside that mimics a Category 5 hurricane.  The

special tank is made out of acrylic and powerful 1400 horsepower fans can create winds in excess of 150 miles per hour.  The University says Sustain will give them better data about which type of structures can best survive in challenging weather conditions.

The clear tank will also help researchers learn how pollutants like oil spread across the ocean during a storm so steps can be taken to protect the environment and where to deploy containment crews.