How To Know The Wyoming Wind Speed Without Tech

You're never too old to learn something new; today, I learned something new.

Today's science lesson isn't new. It dates back to around 150 A.D. and is still in use today.

These are very important in Wyoming because of its extreme winds. Before we all started walking around with weather stations in our pockets, meteorologists, engineers, pilots, and ship captains could determine the speed and direction of the wind by using a simple tool.

The windsock.

I'll be honest: I always knew the windsock was there to help determine the wind's direction, but I had no clue that you could also tell the speed.

Did you know that the crisp white and vibrant red stripes on a windsock are not just for adding a pop of color to airport terminals, helipads, or high-rise buildings?

 

They actually indicate precise wind speeds, serving as a vital visual aid for pilots, meteorologists, and engineers to gauge air currents and navigate safely.

 

Here's how the carefully calibrated stripes provide essential information in the blink of an eye.

You may not have a windsock at your house, but there are other ways to estimate the wind speed just by looking around.

Wyoming's average wind speed is 12.9 mph, which ranks near the top in the U.S. and has caused quite a bit of humor.