Wind Chill Calculator
Calculate the "feels like" temperature based on air temperature and wind speed. Know the frostbite risk before heading outside.
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What This Means
Enter temperature and wind speed to see wind chill.
Quick Answer: Wind Chill Danger Levels
Wind chill indicates how cold it feels on exposed skin. Take precautions when wind chill drops below 0°F (-18°C).
Dr. Snezana Lawrence
Mathematical Historian
15+ years experience
PhD from Yale University. Published mathematical historian ensuring precision in all calculations.
Education
PhD in Mathematical History - Yale University
Table of Contents
What is Wind Chill?
Wind chill, also known as wind chill factor or feels like temperature, is the perceived decrease in air temperature felt by the body due to the flow of air. When wind blows on exposed skin, it increases heat loss from the body.
The faster the wind blows, the faster heat is carried away from the body, lowering the skin temperature and making you feel colder than the actual air temperature.
Why It Matters
Understanding wind chill helps you prepare for cold weather and avoid frostbite. It's crucial for outdoor workers, hikers, and anyone exposed to cold, windy conditions.
The Formula
WC = 35.74 + 0.6215T - 35.75V0.16 + 0.4275TV0.16
T = temp (°F), V = wind speed (mph)
Wind Chill Chart
Reference table showing wind chill values for various temperature and wind speed combinations:
| Temp | 5 mph | 10 mph | 15 mph | 20 mph | 25 mph | 30 mph |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40°F | 36°F | 34°F | 32°F | 30°F | 29°F | 28°F |
| 30°F | 25°F | 21°F | 19°F | 17°F | 16°F | 15°F |
| 20°F | 13°F | 9°F | 6°F | 4°F | 3°F | 1°F |
| 10°F | 1°F | -4°F | -7°F | -9°F | -11°F | -12°F |
| 0°F | -11°F | -16°F | -19°F | -22°F | -24°F | -26°F |
| -10°F | -22°F | -28°F | -32°F | -35°F | -37°F | -39°F |
| -20°F | -34°F | -41°F | -45°F | -48°F | -51°F | -53°F |
Green = Low Risk, Yellow = Moderate, Orange = High, Red = Very High, Purple = Extreme
Cold Weather Safety Tips
Dress in Layers
Wear multiple thin layers that trap air for insulation.
Cover Exposed Skin
Wear a hat, gloves, scarf, and face covering. Frostbite targets extremities.
Stay Dry
Wet clothing loses insulation. Avoid sweating and keep outer layers waterproof.
Limit Exposure Time
Take breaks indoors. Don't push through when feeling very cold.
Know the Signs of Frostbite
Watch for numbness, white/grayish skin, and hard/waxy feeling skin.
Stay Hydrated & Nourished
Your body burns more calories in cold weather. Eat well and drink water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is wind chill?
Wind chill is the temperature it "feels like" when wind is factored in. Wind increases heat loss from exposed skin, making it feel colder than the actual air temperature.
At what wind chill is it dangerous?
Wind chill below 0°F (-18°C) is dangerous for prolonged exposure. At -20°F (-29°C), frostbite can occur in 10-30 minutes. Below -40°F (-40°C), frostbite can occur in under 5 minutes on exposed skin.
When is wind chill calculated?
Wind chill is only calculated when the air temperature is 50°F (10°C) or below AND wind speed is above 3 mph. Above these thresholds, wind chill equals the actual temperature.
Can wind chill freeze water?
No, wind chill cannot make water freeze faster than the actual air temperature would. Wind chill only affects how cold living tissue feels. Objects cool to the air temperature, not the wind chill temperature.
What's the difference between wind chill and heat index?
Wind chill measures how cold it feels with wind (winter). Heat index measures how hot it feels with humidity (summer). Both are "feels like" temperatures but for opposite conditions.
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Dr. Snezana Lawrence
Mathematical Historian | PhD from Yale
Dr. Lawrence is a published mathematical historian with a PhD from Yale University. She ensures mathematical precision and accuracy in all our calculations, conversions, and academic score calculators. Her expertise spans computational mathematics and educational assessment.
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