Definition: Wind gust is the maximum wind speed measured during a specified time period. The American Meteorological Society defines a wind gust as a sudden brief increase in the speed of the wind. More specifically, the National Digital Forecast Database defines a wind gust as the maximum 3-second wind speed (in knots) forecast to occur within a 2-minute interval at a height of 10 meters (~32.8 feet).
One of the highest non-tornadic wind gusts ever recorded occurred in 1934 at the top of Mount Washington.
Also Known As: gusts of wind