The wind is something we can all feel, but what should we call it? Breezy or windy? Let's take a closer look at the definition and difference between the two forecast terms. 

What You Need To Know

  • The National Weather Service has made descriptions of regularly used weather terms

  • Breezy and windy are different weather terms

  • Sustained wind speeds, not gusts, determine the difference between breezy and windy

If you've ever wondered what the difference between a breezy and windy day is, you're not alone.

I think we all can recall a memory or experience with the wind. Examples include thunderstorms, a cold front, dust storms, hurricanes to flying a kite. What defines this invisible force of nature?

Well, according to the National Weather Service, descriptions of regularly used weather terms are givento understand the forecast. Descriptions are given for sky conditions, temperature, precipitation probability, time periods and wind. 

The wind is described as the prevailing direction from which the wind is blowing, with speeds in miles per hour. So it's all about the sustained wind speed when we're talking about the difference between breezy and windy, not the gusts. 

Breezy is described as a sustained wind speed from 15-25 mph. Windy is a sustained wind speed from 20-30 mph. 

What makes a very windy day? Sustained winds between 30-40 mph. How about strong, dangerous, high and damaging winds? Try 40-73 mph sustained.

Beyond that? Hurricane-force. Winds sustained at 74 mph or greater.

Now that you know the difference between breezy and windy, you can be ready for what's considered one of the windiest months of the year.