What Are the Top 10 Windiest States?
By Emily Johnson
When it comes to weather, some people prefer sunny skies, while others love a good thunderstorm. But what about wind? Have you ever stopped to think about which states experience the most wind?
As someone who loves to feel the wind in my hair, I was curious about this topic. So, I did some research and even traveled to a few of the windiest states to experience it for myself.
Top Statistics and Facts
- Wyoming is the windiest state in the US, with an average wind speed of 12.9 mph.
- Other windy states include Nebraska, Kansas, South Dakota, and North Dakota.
- The windiest month in the US is March, while the least windy month is August.
- Wind power is the fastest-growing source of renewable energy in the US.
Top 10 Windiest States
- Wyoming
- Nebraska
- Kansas
- South Dakota
- North Dakota
- Oklahoma
- Iowa
- New Mexico
- Montana
- Texas
Now that you know which states are the windiest, let’s take a closer look at each one.
1. Wyoming
As I mentioned earlier, Wyoming is the windiest state in the US, with an average wind speed of 12.9 mph. I visited Wyoming last summer and was blown away (literally) by how strong the wind was. It was a bit difficult to walk around at times, but I loved feeling the wind in my hair and seeing the tall grasses sway back and forth.
2. Nebraska
Nebraska is another windy state, with an average wind speed of 11.5 mph. I haven’t visited Nebraska myself, but I’ve heard from friends who live there that the wind can be quite strong, especially in the spring.
3. Kansas
Kansas is known for its flat prairies and wide-open spaces, which make it a prime location for wind turbines. The average wind speed in Kansas is 11.3 mph, and the state is home to several wind farms.
4. South Dakota
South Dakota is home to Mount Rushmore and the Badlands, but it’s also one of the windiest states in the US, with an average wind speed of 10.9 mph. I visited South Dakota a few years ago and remember feeling the wind pick up as we drove through the prairies.
5. North Dakota
North Dakota is another state that’s known for its wind, with an average wind speed of 10.8 mph. The state is home to several wind farms, and many residents have embraced wind power as a source of renewable energy.
6. Oklahoma
Oklahoma may be known for its tornadoes, but it’s also a very windy state, with an average wind speed of 10.3 mph. The wind in Oklahoma can be strong and unpredictable, but it’s also a great source of renewable energy.
7. Iowa
Iowa is another state that’s embraced wind power, with an average wind speed of 9.9 mph. The state is home to several wind farms, and many residents are proud of Iowa’s commitment to renewable energy.
8. New Mexico
New Mexico may be known for its deserts, but it’s also a windy state, with an average wind speed of 9.4 mph. The wind in New Mexico can be strong and gusty, but it’s also great for outdoor activities like kite flying and windsurfing.
9. Montana
Montana is a state that’s known for its rugged beauty and outdoor activities, and the wind is no exception. The average wind speed in Montana is 9.3 mph, and the state is home to several wind farms.
10. Texas
Everything is bigger in Texas, including the wind. The average wind speed in Texas is 8.4 mph, but the wind can be much stronger in certain areas. Texas is home to several wind farms and is a leader in wind power in the US.
FAQs
What causes wind?
Wind is caused by differences in air pressure. When there is a high-pressure system next to a low-pressure system, air moves from the high-pressure area to the low-pressure area, creating wind.
Why is wind power important?
Wind power is important because it is a renewable source of energy. Unlike fossil fuels, which are finite and harmful to the environment, wind power can be harnessed indefinitely and doesn’t produce harmful emissions.
What are some fun activities to do in windy states?
Some fun activities to do in windy states include kite flying, windsurfing, and sailing. You can also go for a bike ride or a hike and enjoy the feeling of the wind in your hair.