How Do Windsocks Work?

How Do Windsocks Work? thumbnail
How Do Windsocks Work?
  1. What are Windsocks?

    • Windsocks are cloth cones attached to fixed mounts. They are designed to show the direction and relative speed of the wind. Windsocks are used at airports, seaports, chemical plants and in areas where high wind speed can be dangerous (such as on mountain roads and highways).

    Determining Wind Direction

    • Windsocks point in the direction opposite of the wind's direction of origin. For example, if a windsock is pointing west, the wind is coming from the east. The wind speed must reach 3 knots (3.5 mph) in order for the windsock to orient itself to the wind's direction.

    Determining Wind Speed

    • The Federal Aviation Administration sets the wind speed standards for windsocks used at airports. All windsocks must withstand wind speed of up to 75 knots (or 86 mph). Windsocks must extend fully (perpendicular to the ground) at 15 knots (or 17 mph).

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  • Photo Credit Airport Windsock Corporation

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