Global wind map
Each moving line on this globe follows the wind at 10 metres above the ground, the standard height for surface wind. Particles drift along the flow and leave a short trail, so fast air shows up as long, bright streaks and calm areas look almost still.
Hover over the globe, or tap on a phone, to read the speed and direction of the wind at that spot. The data comes from the NOAA GFS model at 0.25 degree resolution and is updated four times a day.
A few patterns are worth finding. Near the equator the trade winds blow steadily from the east. At mid-latitudes the flow turns into the strong westerlies, with waves and swirls that mark passing storms. Around the poles the circulation tightens into large vortices.
Press play on the timeline to see the next 48 hours in steps of 3 hours. The motion between steps is blended, so storms appear to travel rather than jump. If your device asks for reduced animation, the wind starts switched off, and you can turn it on with the Wind switch.