Felhszél

Felhszél is a Hungarian term that translates to "cloud wind" or "wind from the clouds." It describes a phenomenon characterized by a sudden, strong gust of wind that often accompanies or precedes a change in weather, particularly the arrival of rain or a storm. This type of wind is typically associated with the rapid descent of cooler, denser air from storm clouds.

The experience of felhszél can be quite dramatic. It is often heralded by a noticeable drop in temperature and a darkening of the sky. The wind itself can be forceful, capable of stirring up dust, rustling leaves vigorously, and making it difficult to stand upright. It is a fleeting but intense gust, often lasting only a few minutes before subsiding or transitioning into a more sustained wind.

In Hungarian folklore and common understanding, felhszél is seen as a harbinger of significant weather events. It is not merely a gentle breeze but a signal that the atmosphere is in motion and about to deliver precipitation or a more significant weather disturbance. While not a scientifically defined meteorological term, it serves as a descriptive and evocative way for people to identify and anticipate imminent weather shifts, particularly those related to convective activity. The term captures the visual of wind appearing to rush down from the sky, associated with the formation or movement of clouds.