Wind Chill Calculator Online Free Tool
Wind Chill Calculator
Wind Speed
Air Temperature
Wind Chill Temperature
Safety Tips
Wind Speed Impact
Temperature Impact
Wind chill is the apparent temperature felt by exposed skin due to wind. Wind increases heat loss by removing the thin layer of warm air surrounding the body. This calculator uses the NWS wind chill formula to find the apparent temperature, frostbite times, and safety guidance for cold, windy conditions.
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Wind Chill Formula
The current NWS wind chill formula was developed in 2001, replacing an older formula from the 1940s. It is based on a model of the human face (the most commonly exposed skin) and was validated in clinical trials.
Wind Chill (°F) = 35.74 + 0.6215T - 35.75V^0.16 + 0.4275T × V^0.16 Where: T = Air temperature (°F) V = Wind speed (mph) Applies when: T ≤ 50°F and V > 3 mph
Equivalent formula in Celsius: T_WC = 13.12 + 0.6215T - 11.37V^0.16 + 0.3965T × V^0.16
Frostbite Risk by Wind Chill
| Wind Chill | Time to Frostbite (exposed skin) |
|---|---|
| Above -20°F (-29°C) | Low risk |
| -20°F to -40°F (-29 to -40°C) | 30 minutes |
| -40°F to -60°F (-40 to -51°C) | 10 minutes |
| Below -60°F (-51°C) | 5 minutes or less |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does wind chill affect the temperature of inanimate objects?⌄
No. Wind chill only affects objects that generate heat (living beings). An inanimate object like your car will cool to the actual air temperature but no lower, regardless of wind speed. Wind makes the cooling happen faster, but the final equilibrium temperature is the air temperature. This is why your car will not freeze at -40°F wind chill if actual air temperature is only 10°F.
What is the difference between wind chill and feels like temperature in weather apps?⌄
Weather apps show "feels like" temperature that may use wind chill in winter (when temperature is below ~50°F and wind is present) or heat index in summer (when temperature is above 80°F and humidity is significant). At moderate temperatures with neither factor dominant, "feels like" may equal actual air temperature.
How does wind chill cause frostbite?⌄
Frostbite occurs when skin temperature drops below the freezing point of skin tissue (about 28°F / -2°C). Wind removes the warm boundary layer around skin faster, accelerating heat loss and causing skin to freeze more quickly. Wind chill therefore shortens the time to frostbite, even though the actual air temperature may be above freezing.
What protective measures reduce wind chill effects?⌄
Wind-resistant outer layers (not just insulation) are most important. Exposed skin (face, hands, ears) is most vulnerable. Cover all skin in extreme conditions. Staying dry is critical since wet clothing loses most of its insulating value. Layering (moisture-wicking base, insulating mid, wind-blocking outer) is the most effective strategy for cold weather protection.