Wind Chill Calculator

How to use the Wind Chill Calculator

1. Enter the measured outdoor air temperature.
2. Enter a sustained wind speed rather than a brief gust.
3. Select US or metric units and the desired rounding.
4. Calculate to see the apparent temperature, temperature drop, converted result, and exposure guidance.

Use a weather station or a reputable forecast for values measured near your location. Buildings, trees, terrain, sunlight, moisture, clothing, and activity can change how cold conditions feel. The Wind Chill Calculator describes exposed skin in shaded, windy conditions rather than the temperature of an object.

Wind chill formula

For Fahrenheit and miles per hour, the US National Weather Service equation is:

Wind chill = 35.74 + 0.6215T − 35.75V^0.16 + 0.4275TV^0.16

Here, T is air temperature in degrees Fahrenheit and V is wind speed in miles per hour. The equivalent metric equation uses degrees Celsius and kilometers per hour:

Wind chill = 13.12 + 0.6215T − 11.37V^0.16 + 0.3965TV^0.16

This Wind Chill Calculator converts values internally so both equations produce consistent results. Wind chill is an index of heat loss from exposed skin; it does not mean that an inanimate object will cool below the actual air temperature.

Worked wind chill example

Suppose the air temperature is 20°F and the sustained wind speed is 15 mph. Applying the official equation produces a wind chill of approximately 6°F. The wind therefore makes exposed skin feel about 14°F colder than the measured air temperature. In metric units, the same conditions are about −6.7°C, 24.1 km/h, and a feels-like value near −14.3°C.

Wind chill and cold-exposure guidance

The Wind Chill Calculator provides general planning guidance. Times are broad estimates, not personal guarantees. Children, older adults, people with circulation problems, and anyone who is wet, tired, or inadequately dressed may be affected sooner. Seek shelter if skin becomes numb, pale, waxy, or painful, or if shivering becomes intense.

Accuracy and limitations

The Wind Chill Calculator follows the official model, which assumes wind measured at the standard height and adjusts it to approximate face-level exposure. It is not intended for temperatures above 50°F or winds at or below 3 mph. Humidity is not part of the equation, and the model does not include direct sunlight, which may make conditions feel warmer.

Use the Wind Chill Calculator for planning rather than medical diagnosis. For current warnings and official explanations, consult the National Weather Service wind chill guidance. Follow local emergency advice during severe winter weather.

Frequently asked questions

Can wind chill freeze water when the air temperature is above freezing?

No. Wind can make an object cool faster, but it cannot lower the object below the actual air temperature. Water will not freeze solely because the wind chill is below 32°F when the measured air remains above freezing.

Why is there no official result in mild weather?

The formula was developed for cold temperatures and meaningful wind. Outside its validated range, presenting a precise wind chill could be misleading.

Should I enter wind gusts?

Use sustained wind for a representative result. A gust can show a brief worst case but may overstate typical exposure.

Does wind chill apply to pets?

Animals can suffer cold stress, but coat, size, health, wetness, shelter, and species matter. Use veterinary and local safety guidance rather than relying only on a human wind chill value.

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