Definition of the word wind chill

The term "wind chill" refers to the actual worse feeling of cold on exposed skin due to the combined effect of wind and colder air temperature. The concept was first introduced by Paul E. Richardson, a physicist at the University of Connecticut, in 1949. Originally called the "wind drift factor," Richardson's calculations considered wind speed and dry-bulb thermometer readings. In 1972, it was renamed "wind chill" and included additional factors like air moisture content, which was developed by researchers at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This new formulation provides a more accurate measure of the actual perceived temperature, helping people to prepare for and avoid the potential dangers of extreme cold. Thus, the term "wind chill" reflects the scientific understanding that wind speed and low temperatures can make the conditions feel much colder than the thermometer might suggest, and has become an important weather forecasting metric for public safety.