Wind Chill Formula:
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The wind chill factor represents how cold it feels when wind is factored in with the actual air temperature. It's based on the rate of heat loss from exposed skin caused by wind and cold.
The calculator uses the standard wind chill formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the wind chill index based on how wind speed affects heat loss from the human body at different temperatures.
Details: Wind chill is important for assessing risk of frostbite and hypothermia. It helps determine appropriate clothing and precautions needed for outdoor activities in cold weather.
Tips: Enter temperature in Fahrenheit and wind speed in miles per hour. Wind speed must be ≥ 0 mph. The formula is most accurate for wind speeds above 3 mph.
Q1: Why does wind make it feel colder?
A: Wind removes the thin layer of warm air that surrounds your body, increasing heat loss and making it feel colder than the actual temperature.
Q2: At what wind chill does frostbite occur?
A: Frostbite can occur in 30 minutes when wind chill values are -19°F or lower. At -35°F, frostbite can occur in 10 minutes.
Q3: Does wind chill affect objects?
A: No, wind chill only affects living things. Objects will cool to the actual air temperature, not the wind chill temperature.
Q4: What's the difference between old and new wind chill formulas?
A: The current formula (implemented in 2001) is based on human face models and provides more accurate readings, especially at higher wind speeds.
Q5: Can wind chill be higher than actual temperature?
A: No, wind chill can only make it feel colder than the actual temperature, never warmer.