Wind Chill Calculator
Calculate how cold it really feels
What is Wind Chill?
Estimating how cold the air feels on exposed skin, wind chill combines air temperature and wind speed to determine the actual temperature that the air feels. Because faster wind removes heat more quickly, you experience a colder sensation than the thermometer suggests.
Why it matters
Because of wind chill’s impact, you can use it to guide your clothing choices, manage your outdoor time, and prevent frostbite in cold weather.
Who uses it
Families checking the forecast, school admins planning delays, coaches, commuters, hikers, and work crews—all rely on wind chill information.
Where it applies
If you’re facing cold, windy conditions, wind chill is most relevant; don’t use it for calm air, indoor spaces, or places near heat sources.
How the Wind Chill is Calculated
This calculator utilises the National Weather Service (NWS) formula and is valid when the air temperature is ≤ 50 °F (10 °C) and the wind speed is > 3 mph (4.8 km/h). In the formula WC is wind chill (°F), T is air temperature (°F), and V is wind speed (mph).
The formula
WC = 35.74 + 0.6215×T − 35.75×V^0.16 + 0.4275×T×V^0.16
Units supported
Enter temperature in °C/°F and wind speed in km/h/mph; the tool converts internally.
Sunshine option
You can add a sunshine level, as the sun can slightly raise the perceived temperature when wind speeds are low.
How to Use the Wind Chill Calculator
Discover how it really feels outside and receive a helpful risk label—just follow these simple steps!
First, enter the outdoor temperature. It’s easy to do. You can choose either °C or °F, depending on what you like.
Next, enter the wind speed. You can use a local report or forecast, and you can choose km/h or mph.
If you want to include sunshine, select how sunny it is: None, Weak, Moderate, or Strong. This will show you how the warmth changes.
Ready? Just press “Calculate Wind Chill” to get your feels-like temperature and risk level.
Review your results, then use the label to help you select the right gear and plan your time outdoors.
Want to start over? Hit “Clear All Changes” and you’re set for a new try.
Risk Levels & Safety Guidance
Quick, conservative guidelines. Actual risk varies with clothing, activity, age, and health.
Low Risk
You can stay comfortable with your usual winter clothing. Keep an eye on how long you are outside. If conditions worsen, be more careful with exposed skin.
Frostbite Risk
Exposed skin can freeze in about 10 to 30 minutes. Make sure to cover your hands, feet, and face, and try not to stay outside too long. If it gets colder, the risk increases.
High Risk
At this level, exposed skin can freeze in just 5 to 10 minutes. Cover up completely, wear windproof clothing, and if you can, postpone outdoor plans.
Extreme Risk
Only go outside if you absolutely have to, and keep it under five minutes. If you notice any warning signs, get indoors right away.
Outdoor tips
Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add something warm in the middle, and finish with a windproof jacket. Don’t forget a hat, gloves, warm socks, and to cover your face and neck.
For schools and events
Use wind-chill guidelines to help decide on delays, cancellations, or limiting outdoor activities.
For district-level forecasts and likely closures, use our Snow Day Calculator.
How Sunshine Affects Wind Chill
Sunshine can modestly increase the perceived temperature, especially when the wind is light. As the wind increases, the sunshine benefit drops.
Weak Sunshine
When sunshine is weak, it can make the air feel a bit warmer. Our tool reflects this by making a slight upward adjustment.
Moderate Sunshine
With moderate sunshine, the sun offers some warmth, but the wind still has a bigger effect on how much heat you lose.
Strong Sunshine
Even with strong sunshine, the wind can overpower the warming effect of the sun. It is best to dress for the wind chill temperature.
Limits & Notes
Wind chill is calculated for an average adult standing in the shade with a steady wind.
Microclimates
Features like tall buildings, valleys, and windbreaks can create microclimates, making it feel warmer or colder than the forecast suggests.
Activity level
When you move, your body produces heat and sweat, so it’s best to wear breathable, moisture-wicking clothing.
Health & Age
Children, older adults, and people with some health conditions can be more sensitive to cold. If you’re unsure, limit their time outside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the top questions about the Wind Chill Calculator and how it affects winter comfort, safety, and snow day predictions.