1. What is Wind Chill?

Wind chill is the perceived decrease in air temperature felt by the body on exposed skin due to the flow of air. It describes how cold it feels when wind is factored in with the actual air temperature.

2. How Is Wind Chill Calculated?

The calculator uses the US National Weather Service formula:

Where:

• \( W \) — Wind chill temperature (°F)
• \( T \) — Air temperature (°F), must be ≤50°F
• \( V \) — Wind speed (mph), must be ≥0 mph

Explanation: The formula calculates how wind speed affects the perception of temperature on exposed human skin.

3. Importance of Wind Chill

Details: Wind chill is important for understanding frostbite risk and hypothermia danger during cold weather. It helps determine appropriate clothing and precautions for outdoor activities.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter temperature in °F (must be 50°F or below) and wind speed in mph (must be 0 mph or above). The formula is only valid for these ranges.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is wind chill only calculated for temps ≤50°F?
A: Above 50°F, wind doesn't significantly affect perceived temperature, and the formula becomes inaccurate.

Q2: How does wind chill affect frostbite risk?
A: Faster wind speeds accelerate heat loss from the body, increasing frostbite risk at higher wind chills.

Q3: Is this the same formula used in Canada?
A: No, Canada uses a different formula that produces results in °C and accounts for modern heat transfer theory.

Q4: 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.

Q5: Why was the wind chill formula changed in 2001?
A: The old formula overestimated wind chill effect. The new formula is based on human face models and modern heat transfer science.