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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US Dept of Commerce
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
National Weather Service
Spokane Weather Forecast Office
2601 N. Rambo Rd.
Spokane, Washington 99224

Tel: (509) 244-0110