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Advancing fire weather research: testing ultrasonic wind sensors in the field
Wind plays a critical role in fire behaviour. Most fires spread in the direction of the wind, but in the case of plume-dominated fires, those that generate massive vertical plumes, the fire itself begins to influence the atmosphere around it.
These extreme events can become powerful enough to create their own weather systems, including thunderstorm clouds and, in rare cases, even tornadoes. Understanding such phenomena is a key focus of the SJSU research team.
To support their field studies, the team deploys a range of mobile research vehicles that are also equipped with mobile weather stations and traditional prop-and-vane wind sensors . However, the mechanical design of these sensors poses challenges in mobile and high-intensity environments.
To overcome these limitations, the team has been testing ultrasonic wind sensors in the field. These advanced instruments offer several advantages, including increased durability, faster response times, and more accurate readings in dynamic conditions.
Originally published on gillinstruments.com, 1 July 2025.