A scale from 0 to 12 that classifies wind speed by its observed effects — from calm (0) to hurricane force (12).
measurementWhat is Beaufort Scale?
Developed by Admiral Sir Francis Beaufort in 1805, the scale was originally based on the effect of wind on sailing ships. Modern usage defines each level by specific wind speed ranges. Force 0 = calm (<1 km/h), Force 6 = strong breeze (39–49 km/h), Force 10 = storm (89–102 km/h), Force 12 = hurricane (>119 km/h). The scale is still widely used in marine weather forecasts.
Key points
- A scale from 0 to 12 that classifies wind speed by its observed effects — from calm (0) to hurricane force (12).
- Category: measurement
Related terms
See also: beaufort-scale is connected to other weather concepts. Browse the full glossary for related definitions.