How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the wind speed in either km/h or mph. You can use either field, but not both.
- Click the "Calculate" button to determine the wind force level.
- The calculator will display the Beaufort force level, the exact wind speed, the wind speed range, and a descriptive text of the wind conditions.
- Use the "Reset" button to clear all inputs and start over.
Understanding the Beaufort Scale
The Beaufort scale is a empirical scale that relates wind speed to observed conditions at sea or on land. It was developed by Sir Francis Beaufort in the early 19th century as a way for sailors to describe wind conditions without instruments.
Beaufort Force Levels
Here's a quick reference for the Beaufort force levels:
- 0: Calm - Smoke rises vertically
- 1: Light air - Smoke drifts
- 2: Light breeze - Wind felt on face; leaves rustle
- 3: Gentle breeze - Small trees sway
- 4: Moderate breeze - Flag extends
- 5: Fresh breeze - Dust lifted, small waves
- 6: Strong breeze - Large branches move
- 7: Near gale - Whole trees in motion
- 8: Gale - Moderate waves
- 9: Strong gale - Large waves with some whitecaps
- 10: Storm - High waves, spray
- 11: Violent storm - Exceptionally high waves
- 12: Hurricane - Devastating damage
Applications of Wind Force Level Information
Understanding wind force levels is important for:
- Sailing and maritime activities
- Aircraft operations and aviation safety
- Weather forecasting
- Structural engineering and building design
- Wind energy generation
- Sports and outdoor activities