How to Do Windsock Wind Speed Measurements

Windsocks are fabric tubes hung on poles that inflate with the wind. Although many are designed as decorative yard ornaments, they are still used for measuring wind speed and direction by aviators. Placed around an airfield, windsocks can offer a quick visual representation of wind conditions. Windsocks are typically divided into colored sections, and by noting the angle and inflation of these sections as wind flows through it, you can gauge wind speed with a fair amount of accuracy.

Anemometer

Instructions

- 1
  Hang your windsock in an open area, away from buildings or nearby trees to get the most unobstructed airflow.
- 2
  Use an anemometer, available at most hardware stores, to measure wind speed next to the windsock. An anemometer is a hand held device that contains a small set of fan blades. The fan is pointed in the direction of the wind, and the wind speed will be shown on the display. Make a note of how much of the wind sock is inflated at this speed and at what angle from the ground.
- 3
  Collect wind measurements with your anemometer until you have a list of wind speeds associated with each section of the windsock, and its angle from the ground. Organize your data into a small visual chart you can hang near a window where the windsock is visible.

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