A new wind speed reading from Hurricane Melissa has reignited debate among meteorologists worldwide about the strongest winds ever observed by humans. A specialized instrument known as a dropsonde recorded a staggering 252 mph wind gust inside the hurricane, making it one of the most extreme measurements ever captured and raising questions about how wind records are officially defined.
How Wind Speed Records Are Measured
Wind speed records vary depending on the measuring method and location. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO), which maintains the official global record for weather extremes, only recognizes wind speeds measured by fixed instruments like automated weather stations — not those recorded by airborne dropsondes.
According to WMO, the strongest officially recognized surface wind was 253 mph, recorded on Barrow Island, Australia during Tropical Cyclone Olivia in 1996.
Why Hurricane Melissa’s Reading Is Unique
The 252 mph reading from Hurricane Melissa was captured using a dropsonde, a disposable weather instrument dropped into the eye of the storm from an aircraft. This measurement occurred at approximately 700 feet above sea level, south of Jamaica.
Although WMO does not officially include dropsonde measurements in its record system, experts still consider this an extraordinary scientific achievement. Meteorologist Randall Cerveny called it an “incredible measurement” and praised the Hurricane Hunter crews for their precision and dedication.
What This Means for Meteorology
This reading highlights the complexity of defining “the highest wind speed ever recorded.” While Hurricane Melissa’s gust may not officially rewrite the record books, it stands as one of the most powerful wind speeds ever directly observed and measured by human technology.
Scientists believe such precise data can improve forecasting accuracy and enhance public safety by helping meteorologists better understand the behavior of extreme storms.
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