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Big Wind Day sweeps in on April 12, commemorating the record-breaking 231 mph wind gust recorded on Mount Washington in 1934. It’s a day to appreciate the sheer force of nature and the scientific efforts to measure it. Get outside, fly a kite, or simply marvel at the invisible power of the wind.
Want to sponsor Big Wind Day? Learn how
Expected Big Wind Day Deals
While specific Big Wind Day deals are rare, look for promotions from outdoor gear brands like The North Face, Patagonia, and Columbia Sportswear around mid-April. Retailers specializing in kites, wind chimes, or weather-related instruments may offer discounts. Keep an eye out for local outdoor adventure companies promoting wind sports such as kitesurfing or paragliding. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as April 12 approaches.
Platform Guide for Big Wind Day
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #BigWindDay. Film yourself in a windy spot (safely!), or share fascinating facts about wind and weather phenomena.
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #BigWindDay. Post stunning photos or videos of dramatic skies, wind-swept landscapes, or people enjoying wind sports.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #BigWindDay. Share real-time weather updates, interesting wind facts, or news about renewable wind energy projects.
Big Wind Day Hero
Salvatore Pagliuca
History of Big Wind Day
Mount Washington is the highest peak in the Northeastern United States at 6,288 ft. The mountain is the most prominent in the east of the Mississippi River. It was from the Mount Washington Observatory where observers Wendell Stephenson, Alexander McKenzie, and Salvadore Pagliuca reported the record-breaking wind gusts in 1934. In 1984, the observers returned to the observatory to celebrate the event’s 50th anniversary!
The record of 231 miles per hour held for several decades. However, this record was broken in 1996. A typhoon struck a small island off of Australia with wind gusts of 256 mph. However, the reading from 1934 remains unchallenged in America.
National Big Wind Day or not, we all have to face the occasional windy day. Even without a hurricane or a tornado, it can get extremely windy. Windstorms display the power of nature – they can be dangerous, damaging, and sometimes even deadly. It can disrupt electricity and water supply, uproot trees, and even cause infrastructure damage. On the other hand, the wind is also our friend. It helps to keep us cool on a hot day. Wind also powers the sails of mighty ships. Wind-powered turbines are dotting the landscape globally. These turbines provide increasing amounts of clean electricity and help to build a sustainable future.
Big Wind Day timeline
The first known U.S. wind turbine created for electricity generation is built.
The first wind power plant is established in Denmark.
The deadliest hurricane in American history is recorded.
The Malawian inventor gains fame for using wind turbines to power the appliances at his home.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Big Wind Day
Local businesses can tap into Big Wind Day by offering promotions on outdoor gear, wind-resistant apparel, or even kite-flying kits. Coffee shops might feature ‘wind-down’ specials, while bookstores could highlight titles about meteorology or extreme weather. Outdoor adventure companies can promote wind-powered sports like kitesurfing or paragliding with special introductory rates, encouraging customers to embrace the day’s theme.
Big Wind Day FAQs
When is Big Wind Day?
In 2027, Big Wind Day falls on Monday, April 12, marking the anniversary of the world-record wind speed. This annual observance invites us to appreciate meteorological marvels.
How fast was the record wind gust on Big Wind Day?
On April 12, 1934, a peak wind speed of 231 mph was recorded by the Mount Washington Observatory, a record that stood for decades. This incredible measurement highlights the extreme conditions found at the peak.
Where is Mount Washington located?
The famed Mount Washington, home to the record-breaking wind gust, is part of the Presidential Range in New Hampshire. Its isolated position and unique topography contribute to its notoriously severe weather.
Why is Mount Washington so windy?
The mountain’s extreme winds are a result of its height, exposure, and the ‘stacking’ effect of air masses. When weather systems move across the continent, they often converge over Mount Washington, creating a powerful venturi effect that accelerates wind flow.
How To Observe Big Wind Day
Share your story
Hold onto your hats and umbrellas while sharing your windy day stories on National Big Wind Day. Invite your friends and family to do the same.
Visit an observatory
Visit an observatory near you on National Big Wind Day to find out more about how they study atmosphere changes, weather, and wind changes.
Advocate for green fuel
Highlight the sustainability and efficacy of wind turbines and mills on National Big Wind Day. Speak to your counselor about how these can be used to generate power.
5 Facts About Wind Power That Will Blow Your Mind
Wind power has been around for centuries
Windmills are often associated with Holland but date back as far as Ancient China in 2000 B.C.
Wind turbines are complex
A single wind turbine has around 8,000 different parts.
It is becoming popular
Wind energy is the fastest-growing renewable energy source in many countries.
Wind technology is bird-friendly
Wind farms have taller and slower-moving blades which are safer for birds.
Hawaii has the world’s largest wind turbine
It stands 20 stories tall and has blades the length of a football field.
Why Big Wind Day is Important
It reminds us of the incredible powers of nature
National Big Wind Day reminds us of the fury and incredible powers of nature. A strong gust of wind is powerful enough to remind us how inconsequential we are.
It’s a reminder to be careful
National Big Wind Day also reminds us to be careful while heading out on a windy day. Take stock of your hats, umbrellas, and raincoats.
It gives us ideas for a green future
When the winds are strong on National Big Wind Day, it gets us thinking of sustainable energy. Use the day to think about other green fuels and how to incorporate them into your life.
Social Media Tips for Big Wind Day
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