How Are Wind Speed and Direction Measured?

Wind speed is measured in miles per hour (MPH), meters per second, or knots. For example, 1 mile per hour is equivalent to 0.447 meters per second, or 0.868 knots. Wind Speed is also measured in kilometers. (1.609 x MPH)

What Does a Wind Speed and Direction Instrument Do?

A wind speed and direction instrument, otherwise known as an anemometer, is a tool used to measure the speed and direction of the wind. It is either used as a stand-alone instrument or as a part of your complete
weather station.

A wind speed and direction instrument has many uses. For example, someone might want to know how high the winds are going to be before they go sailing and use this instrument to check conditions. Or, someone might want to know which way the wind is heading before flying a plane. Measuring and monitoring wind speed and direction can also be useful for occupations like farming or vegetation management where wind speed and direction can have an impact on daily tasks.

Why are Wind Speed and Direction Important?

Wind speed and direction are both incredibly important in understanding the way that weather works. For instance, studying wind can help us understand how far a hurricane can reach, what direction it will take, and how its effects will be felt around the world.

Without wind data, it would be almost impossible to predict the track of a tropical storm or to plan for evacuation. Wind speed and direction are also important to farmers and ranchers in determining how to evenly feed their crops or when doing prescribed burns as well as container ships maintaining their course stability, which is determined by wind force.

If you have any questions about your wind speed and direction instrument, feel free to reach out. Contact us today and a member of our team will get back to you.

Learn how to set a gust register on our Maximum Maestro Wind Instrument.