Wind speed is a fundamental measurement in meteorology. A wind speed of 20 miles per hour (mph) represents a significant threshold, moving beyond a light breeze into a force that clearly asserts its presence. This speed is moderate enough to visibly affect daily activities and the environment but remains below the strength associated with dangerous storms. Understanding its real-world impact requires examining its official classification, the distinct visual cues it creates, and the sensory experience it delivers.
Placing 20 mph Wind on the Beaufort Scale
The Beaufort Wind Scale offers a standardized way to describe wind speed based on observable effects. A wind speed of 20 mph falls within the range of 19 to 24 mph, which the scale designates as Force 5, or a “Fresh Breeze.” This classification represents a wind that is strong but not damaging to well-constructed property. Force 5 marks the point where the wind becomes a constant, tangible factor in the environment, unlike the noticeable but milder Force 4, the “Moderate Breeze.”
Visual Indicators: What Objects Look Like
A Fresh Breeze creates noticeable visual effects on the landscape. Wind at 20 mph is strong enough to cause small leafy trees to sway significantly and constantly. Large branches on bigger trees are also set in continuous motion, providing a clear visual marker of the wind’s strength. On land, the force is sufficient to raise dust, loose soil, and paper, driving them along the surface. Over water, the wind generates crested wavelets, also known as whitecaps, on inland lakes and large rivers.
Physical Sensations: How 20 mph Feels
The physical experience of a 20 mph wind requires a person to actively adjust their movement and posture. Walking directly against a headwind begins to feel inconvenient, requiring a slight lean into the force to maintain a steady pace. Hair is blown across the face and eyes constantly, making it necessary to hold onto hats or glasses to prevent displacement. This level of wind creates a persistent pressure against the body, a constant buffeting. The wind also significantly increases the wind chill effect, making a cold day feel much colder than the thermometer indicates by rapidly stripping away the body’s boundary layer of warm air.
Practical Considerations for Daily Life
A 20 mph wind requires adjustments for many outdoor activities. Cyclists will find that a headwind of this strength increases the effort required, as aerodynamic drag demands more power. Conversely, a tailwind offers a substantial boost, though the constant push can still affect steering.
For drivers, a 20 mph wind is generally safe, but it can cause light or high-profile vehicles, such as vans and trucks, to experience a noticeable push. Securing outdoor items becomes necessary, as unsecured objects like garbage cans, trampolines, and light patio furniture can be easily disturbed or tipped over. Setting up temporary shelters, such as tents, demands secure staking and guying, since the wind is strong enough to collapse poorly anchored structures.