vindstød

Vindstød is a Danish meteorological term for a brief, abrupt increase in wind speed, commonly translated as a wind gust. It denotes a short-lived peak in wind velocity that rises above the prevailing wind and then subsides. In weather observations, gusts are reported separately from the mean wind and are described by their maximum speed over a short interval, typically spanning a few seconds to about a minute.

Gusts arise from atmospheric turbulence and interactions between air masses. They can occur near convective cells, behind cold fronts, or over complex terrain and urban areas where surface roughness enhances turbulence. Gust fronts associated with light to moderate showers or thunderstorms are common sources. Local factors such as topography, buildings, and land cover can intensify or funnel gusts, creating noticeable short-term wind spikes even when the average wind remains moderate.

Impacts of vindstød include hazards to outdoor activities, construction and maintenance work, and transportation. Sudden gusts can disturb lifting operations, affect sailing and aviation, topple unsecured objects, and stress trees and power lines. Forecasts that indicate potential gusts help inform safety precautions and operational decisions.

Etymology and related terms: vindstød combines vind (wind) and stød (blow or strike). In meteorology, it corresponds to the general concept of a wind gust, distinct from sustained wind and from more extended wind events like squalls, which have different duration and intensity criteria.