How to Read Wind Direction on Station Models
- 1). Locate the wind symbol on the station model. It appears as a solid, straight line called a "wind shaft." Along the wind shaft, notice the lines or triangles plotted to represent "wind barbs."
- 2). Decide which direction the wind is blowing. The wind symbol on the station model points in the direction the wind is coming from. Look at the station model just like you would a compass held out in front of you to determine wind direction.
- 3). Discern the wind speed once you figure out the wind direction. Wind direction is determined in measurements of five knots; thus, a half line extending from the wind shaft is five knots, while a full line is 10 knots. A shaded triangle represents 50 knots. No lines or triangles means the wind is calm. Some station models may have no wind shaft if the wind is calm; instead, you will find a symbol on the station model consisting of a small circle inside a larger circle.
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