When the wind has a certain intensity it is called a blizzard. Thus, a blizzard or snowstorm is a storm in which the force of the wind can lift the snow from the ground. Blizzard is the verb used to express this action.
Problems related to an icy blizzard
The wind associated with snow and cold causes an icy blizzard. When this happens, a series of very negative effects can occur: closure of roads and ski resorts, problems with electricity supply or limitations in the distribution of food.
Among mountaineers, blizzards are especially feared, since the thermal sensation of the body decreases and visibility is very limited.
Different terms to refer to the wind and phenomena in Spain
The force of the air is highly variable and depends on the speed, humidity and the characteristics of each place. This circumstance makes the concept of wind express itself in various ways. If the intensity is very moderate and even pleasant, it is called a breeze and in those circumstances in which the air is intense, it is called a gale or blizzard.
In the context of activities related to the sea, the origin of the wind and where it is going is very important and for this the words windward and leeward are used respectively.
In the territory of Spain, when the air mass is warm and there is a slight humidity, it is known as ábrego. The dry wind associated with low temperatures is called cierzo. When the air appears suddenly and violently it is known as gale. In some territories, the wind that comes from the east is known as levante and the one that comes from the Atlantic Ocean and moves to the west is called poniente.
The tramontana is a cold and turbulent wind that affects the Balearic Islands and Catalonia. If the wind has great speed and comes from the Sahara, it is the sirocco. The southerly wind is known as ostro and is warm, humid and accompanied by rain.
wind measurement
Regardless of the terms used to refer to the different winds, it is very important to know their strength and speed. To know these characteristics, an anemometer is used as a measuring instrument. On the other hand, the wind direction is known using the weather vanes and the air temperature and humidity level is established using some sensor.
Photos: Fotolia – Bruno Alves / Yael Weiss
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