View/Print PDF

Sample Wind Velocity Preparedness Guide

Role of Teachers, Coaches, Intramural Supervisors

Where appropriate, prior to and during outside physical activities, check for wind warnings and cancel and/or make accommodations to activities where winds pose a hazard to students.

Tool that can be used

Anemometer –an instrument for measuring the speed of the wind (handheld model - $100.00).

Actions that Must be Taken

This section outlines actions that must be taken dependent upon the velocity of the wind.

For water activities follow the wind guidelines for participation/cancellation of the governing body of the activity (for example, rowing, sailing), outside activity provider, or school board.

Wind Speeds Land Effect Precautions/Actions that Must be Taken
0-19 km/h
  • Calm to Gentle breez
  • Wind felt on exposed skin
  • Leaves in constant motion
  • No precautions required
  • Be vigilant for change in weather conditions
20-39 km/h
  • Breezy
  • Dust and loose paper raised
  • Branches of trees move
  • Continue outside activity. Teacher to secure items susceptible to being blown around
  • Be vigilant for change in weather conditions
40-49 km/h
  • Strong Breeze
  • Large branches in motion
  • Umbrella use becomes difficult
  • Empty plastic trash cans tip over
  • Teacher to take into consideration activity surroundings (for example, trees, unsecure objects ground cover (sand), and equipment being used
  • Secure appropriate items
  • Activity is to stop and/ or moved indoors when effect of wind poses a risk to participants
50-59 km/h
  • High Winds
  • Whole trees in motion
  • Resistance felt with walking against wind
  • Avoid outside activities
60 km/h Wind Speeds or Gust of Winds of 90 km/h
  • Twigs broken from trees
  • Cars veer on road to large branches break off trees, small trees blow over
  • Construction/temporary signs and barricades blow over
  • Damages to tents and canopies
  • No outdoor activities