Data Element: WIND DIRECTION
You are invited to read the definitions of terms used in this data standard.
| Name |
Wind Direction |
| Description |
The direction from which the wind is blowing. |
| Type | Alpha |
| Syntax | N = North S = South E = East W = West NE = Northeast * Wind direction may be considered variable if, during the 2-minute evaluation period, the wind speed is 6 knots (7 mph, Beaufort code <2) or less. In addition, the wind direction shall be considered variable if, during the 2-minute evaluation period, it varies by 60 degrees or more when the average wind speed is greater than 6 knots (7 mph, Beaufort code >2). |
| Recommended Field Name | WINDDIR |
| Values | The values to be used for this data element are provided in the Syntax. |
| Source | Biological Monitoring and Database Team, FWS Regions 3 and 5 |
| Historical Data | For information on past versions of this standard, contact the National Data Administrator, Branch of Data and Systems Services, Division of Information Resources and Technology Management. |
| Reference(s) |
Part 270, FW 6, Data Management and Standards, has
been superceded by Part 274, FW 2, Establishing Service
Data Standards.
Federal Meteorological Handbook No. 1,Chapter 5, Wind, Section 5.4.2, Variable Wind Direction |
| Use Instructions |
As of the approval date and whenever applicable, this data element will be used in any new automated system, data set, database, or information application, including new Geographic Information System (GIS) data and applications. This data element will also be used in any major modifications to existing systems or versions of these data-related items that use a coding scheme to record wind direction. Service staff are strongly encouraged to utilize this data element in existing systems, data sets, databases, and information applications when appropriate. Where existing systems and data-related items are not in compliance, they should be modified to achieve compatibility and implement this data standard. |
| Phase |
Adopted |
| Approval Date |
July 19, 2007 |
| Validation Date |
February 14, 2011 |
| Data Steward | Todd Sutherland, Information Technology Specialist, Biological Monitoring and Database Team, National Wildlife Refuge System, Region 3. |