What is the typical height at which surface wind is measured?

Surface wind is typically measured at a height of 10 meters above the ground. This standard height is used because it provides a consistent reference for wind measurements, allowing for comparability across different locations and conditions. At 10 meters, the effects of surface roughness and local obstacles are minimized, resulting in a more representative value of the wind conditions in the open atmosphere.

Measuring wind at this height helps meteorologists and pilots understand the prevailing wind patterns that may influence flight operations, weather forecasting, and other meteorological analyses. Using a standardized height like 10 meters also aligns with international conventions in meteorology, making it easier for data to be shared and understood globally.