Big Wind Day 🌬️

Overview

Big Wind Day, observed annually on April 12th, commemorates the astonishing day in 1934 when the highest surface wind speed ever directly measured by humans was recorded on Mount Washington, New Hampshire, USA. On this date, instruments at the summit observatory registered a wind gust of 231 miles per hour (372 km/h), a testament to the sheer power of nature and the extreme meteorological conditions found in certain parts of the world. The day serves as a reminder of Earth's powerful atmospheric forces.

Observed each year on April 12, Big Wind Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Origin and story

The record wind speed of 231 mph (372 km/h) on Mount Washington was measured by a robust, hand-built anemometer.

This record for directly measured surface wind speed stood for 62 years, until a new record was set by Tropical Cyclone Olivia in Australia in 1996.

Quick facts

• DateApril 12
• TypeNature / Outdoors
• Great forGardeners, Hikers, Eco clubs

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

• Share one fast fact about Big Wind Day: The record wind speed of 231 mph (372 km/h) on Mount Washington was measured by a robust, hand-built anemometer.
• Write a note or journal entry on why Big Wind Day matters, then set a reminder for next year.
• Big Wind Day lands on April 12 — host a quick nod with Gardeners, Hikers and snap a photo.
• Plan a 10-minute activity that fits the nature / outdoors vibe and make it a mini tradition.
• Plant something small—herbs, seeds, or a window box.

Fun facts

• The record wind speed of 231 mph (372 km/h) on Mount Washington was measured by a robust, hand-built anemometer.
• This record for directly measured surface wind speed stood for 62 years, until a new record was set by Tropical Cyclone Olivia in Australia in 1996.
• Mount Washington is famously known for its extreme weather, experiencing hurricane-force winds on its summit an average of 110 days per year.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.

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FAQ

When is Big Wind Day?

It is observed on April 12 each year.

What is Big Wind Day?

Big Wind Day, observed annually on April 12th, commemorates the astonishing day in 1934 when the highest surface wind speed ever directly measured by humans was recorded on Mount Washington, New Hampshire, USA. On this date, instruments at the summit observatory registered a wind gust of 231 miles per hour (372 km/h), a testament to the sheer power of nature and the extreme meteorological conditions found in certain parts of the world. The day serves as a reminder of Earth's powerful atmospheric forces.

How do people celebrate Big Wind Day?

Share one fast fact about Big Wind Day: The record wind speed of 231 mph (372 km/h) on Mount Washington was measured by a robust, hand-built anemometer.

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