Tale Of Two Wind Stories: 148 MPH Colorado Wind Gust And The Venturi Effect

Did you hear about the 148 mph record wind gust at Monarch Pass in Colorado this week?  The Monarch Pass wind record is likely associated with a combination of strong winds, convective activity and the unique aerodynamics of the mountainside. At this link NOAA discusses the background on this event and the validity of the measurement. While this wind extreme somewhat associated with convection. Another interesting wind event was playing out in Chicago, and it is an opportunity to discuss the really fascinating Venturi Effect. Wind can be quite the hazard even when it is not associated with a convection, a tornadic storm or a hurricane. For a review of non-convective wind hazards I refer you to an excellent discussion by Dr. John Knox and colleagues.

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