A gust is a sudden increase of the wind’s speed that lasts no more than 20 seconds. This usually occurs when wind speeds reach a peak of at least 16 knots. A wind gust usually comes in 2-minute intervals. … A gust and wind both refer to the movement of different gases in the earth’s atmosphere around the earth
When you’re dealing with a gusty day, the FAA recommends that you add half the gust factor to your final approach speed. For example, if the winds are reported at 18 knots, gusting 30 knots, it means you have a gust factor of 12 knots (30-18 = 12). So if you take half the gust factor, you get 6 knots (12/2 = 6).
A high wind warning is issued when sustained winds of 40 mph or greater or gusts to 58 mph or greater are expected. High winds can cause downed trees and power lines, flying debris and building collapses, which may lead to power outages, transportation disruptions, damage to buildings and vehicles, and injury or death.
