Instrument for Measuring Extreme Winds

An instrument is undergoing development for use in measuring both the horizontal direction and the horizontal speed of wind in the speed range from 60 to 300 mph (about 27 to 134 m/s) at a rate of at least 50 samples per second. The speed range of this instrument greatly exceeds that of conventional anemometers, encompassing speeds observed in hurricanes and tornadoes. Unlike conventional anemometers, this instrument has a small exposure profile and contains no rotating mechanisms and, hence, is more rugged.