As one climbs out of the friction layer, what generally happens to wind velocity?

As altitude increases above the friction layer, wind velocity typically veers and increases. This phenomenon occurs due to a reduction in surface friction, which allows for the wind to accelerate. Near the surface, friction from the terrain, vegetation, and buildings slows the wind. However, as one ascends into the atmosphere, this frictional influence diminishes significantly. The Coriolis effect also becomes more pronounced at higher elevations, causing the wind to change direction, commonly leading to a veering effect where winds tend to shift clockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and counter-clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere with increasing altitude.

This process is essential for understanding wind patterns in meteorology, particularly for flight operations and weather prediction. The behavior of wind with altitude, including its veering and increasing velocity, is crucial for pilots to consider during takeoff, landing, and in flight, as it impacts aircraft performance and navigation.