University of Illinois Extension

Winds – Let It Blow, Let It Blow

Just like water currents in the ocean, the atmosphere has air currents that flow from one place to another. Air is constantly moving around the earth. This moving air is called wind.

Winds are created when there are differences in air pressure from one area to another. In areas of high-pressure (sinking air), air at ground level spreads out, moving away from the high pressure. In an area where there is low-pressure (rising air), air at ground level comes in to the center of low pressure, to replace the air that is rising. This is what makes air move, creating the wind. You can remember this from the saying β€œThe air will blow from high to low.”

 Low-pressure

Low-pressure
Click on the image to view the large version.

High-pressure

High-pressure
Click on the image to view the large version.


University of Illinois Extension | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | College of ACES
© 2024 University of Illinois Board of Trustees | Privacy