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WIND
Winds periodically increase
across the Inland Northwest, especially when during times of active, changing
weather. Sustained winds over 40 mph can lead to minor damage mainly to small
trees and large tree limbs. The NWS has the responsibility of advising the public
on strong and damaging winds which are forecast to hit the region.
There are several different
wind products issued by the NWS. A Wind Advisory is issued for sustained winds
30 to 39 mph or gusts from 40 to 57 mph. A High Wind Warning is issued for sustained
winds over 40 mph or gusts exceeding 60 mph. A High Wind Watch means that high
wind conditions are possible in the next 12 to 36 hours.
The instrument used to
measure wind speed is called an anemometer, but wind speed can be estimated
simply by watching nearby trees or flags. The Beaufort Wind Scale is a system
used to estimate and report wind speeds when no measuring apparatus is available.
It was invented by Admiral Beaufort of the British Navy in the 19th Century
to determine winds at sea. This scale is still used today. A copy of the Beaufort
chart can be obtained via the web page.
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www.weather.gov 
