Wind Chill Calculator
Calculate wind chill temperature based on air temperature and wind speed. Understand how wind makes cold temperatures feel even colder.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the air temperature (°F or °C).
- Enter the wind speed (mph, km/h, or m/s).
- The calculator displays wind chill temperature and risk level.
- Use this to understand how cold it actually feels and dress appropriately.
Wind Chill Formula
Wind chill is calculated using the National Weather Service formula:
Where T = temperature (°F), V = wind speed (mph)
Applies when T ≤ 50°F and V ≥ 3 mph
Example: 32°F with 15 mph wind: Wind Chill = 35.74 + 0.6215×32 - 35.75×15^0.16 + 0.4275×32×15^0.16 = 35.74 + 19.89 - 35.75×1.68 + 0.4275×32×1.68 = 19.2°F. It feels like 19°F, not 32°F!
Full Description
Wind chill is the "feels like" temperature when wind is factored in. Wind removes heat from your body faster by replacing the insulating layer of warm air around your skin with cold air. This makes cold temperatures feel even colder. Understanding wind chill helps you dress appropriately and avoid overexposure to cold conditions.
The wind chill formula was developed by the National Weather Service and accounts for both temperature and wind speed. Wind chill only applies when the temperature is 50°F or below and wind speed is 3 mph or greater. At higher temperatures or lower wind speeds, wind chill equals the actual temperature. The formula shows that wind has a significant effect—even moderate wind can make cold temperatures feel much colder.
This calculator helps you determine wind chill temperature. Enter air temperature and wind speed, and it calculates the "feels like" temperature and risk level. Use it to plan outdoor activities, dress appropriately, understand cold weather risks, or check weather conditions. Always dress for wind chill, not just temperature, to stay safe in cold weather!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is wind chill?
Wind chill is the "feels like" temperature when wind is factored in. Wind removes heat from your body faster, making cold temperatures feel even colder. Wind chill only applies when temperature ≤ 50°F and wind speed ≥ 3 mph.
How is wind chill calculated?
Wind Chill = 35.74 + 0.6215×T - 35.75×V^0.16 + 0.4275×T×V^0.16. Where T = temperature (°F), V = wind speed (mph). This formula is used by the National Weather Service. Wind chill only applies when T ≤ 50°F and V ≥ 3 mph.
What are wind chill risk levels?
Extreme (≤-25°F): Frostbite in minutes. High (-10 to -25°F): Frostbite in 30 minutes. Moderate (0 to -10°F): Frostbite possible. Low (0-15°F): Uncomfortable. Above 15°F: Minimal risk. Always dress appropriately for wind chill, not just temperature.
Why does wind make it feel colder?
Wind removes the insulating layer of warm air around your body, increasing heat loss. Still air acts as insulation. Wind replaces warm air with cold air, accelerating heat loss. This is why wind chill feels colder than actual temperature.