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 estimates how cold it feels when wind is factored in with the actual air temperature.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the US National Weather Service wind chill formula:

Where:

• \( W \) — Wind chill index (°F)
• \( T \) — Air temperature (°F)
• \( V \) — Wind speed (mph)

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

3. Importance of Wind Chill Calculation

Details: Wind chill is important for assessing risk of frostbite and hypothermia. It helps determine appropriate clothing and precautions for cold weather activities.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter temperature in °F and wind speed in mph. Wind speed must be ≥ 0 mph. The formula is valid for temperatures ≤ 50°F and wind speeds ≥ 3 mph.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why does wind make it feel colder?
A: Wind removes the thin layer of warm air next to your skin, increasing heat loss from your body.

Q2: Does wind chill affect objects?
A: No, wind chill only describes how it feels to humans. Objects will cool to the actual air temperature.

Q3: What's the danger zone for wind chill?
A: Frostbite can occur in 30 minutes at wind chills below -18°F, and in as little as 10 minutes below -34°F.

Q4: Is there a different formula for metric units?
A: Yes, Canada and other countries use a metric version of the formula for Celsius temperatures.

Q5: Why is the formula only valid above 3 mph?
A: Below 3 mph, wind has negligible effect on perceived temperature.