Wind barbs are simply a conventient way to represent both wind speed and
direction in a compact graphical form. Vectors also work to some degree
but it is more difficult to discern the magnitude when viewing vectors.
For this reason, meteorologists prefer the use of wind barbs. The graphic
here clearly shows how to read a wind barb. Meteorologists are also
accustomed to nautical miles per hour (knots) for the magnitude of the
wind. Convert to statute miles per hour (mph) by adding 15% to
the value in knots. Example: 60 knots = 60 + 9 mph. [Just remember to
figure it the same way you would figure a 15% tip at a restaurant
by taking 10% and then halve that
value ;-) ]
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