What wind speed does a wind direction indicator show when it is completely horizontal?

What wind speed does a wind direction indicator show when it is completely horizontal?

• A. 10kts
• B. 10kts or greater
• C. 15 knots
• D. 15 knots

Answer: (C)

The wind direction indicator uses the angle of the device in the wind to give a quick sense of wind speed. When the wind is very light, it hangs mostly vertical. As wind speed increases, it rises and becomes more horizontal. If it’s completely horizontal, that position corresponds to about 15 knots. So, in practical training readings, a fully horizontal indicator indicates roughly 15 knots. It’s a rough guide, not an exact measurement, since gusts and device size can affect the exact angle, but the fully horizontal position is tied to about 15 knots.

The wind direction indicator uses the angle of the device in the wind to give a quick sense of wind speed. When the wind is very light, it hangs mostly vertical. As wind speed increases, it rises and becomes more horizontal. If it’s completely horizontal, that position corresponds to about 15 knots. So, in practical training readings, a fully horizontal indicator indicates roughly 15 knots. It’s a rough guide, not an exact measurement, since gusts and device size can affect the exact angle, but the fully horizontal position is tied to about 15 knots.