The Anemometer

This is the instrument used for measuring the wind. It uses three cups to measure the wind speed and an omni-directional vane to measure the winds direction. The wind is usually reported at a height of 10 meters - this is 33 feet, above the surface of the ground. A trace is maintained at major observing sites, showing wind speed and direction over time. This instrument is called an anemograph.

It is often usual for the wind to be measured by the use of a hand held anemometer. This instrument is not very sensitive below 2-3 knots and not accurate below 5 knots. The instrument is held at arms length so that the arm of the observer is perpendicular to the wind direction. The instrument should be treated with care and kept away from electrical equipment. The instrument should be recalibrated annually. It is possible to make home-made instruments that work very well.

The automatic anemometer
Check the automatic weather station data here.