Wind as a negative factor in human comfort and its implications for planning

In all comfort formulae the wind appears as a positive factor with low velocities not exceeding 10 m/s. To date most researchers have ignored the negative effect which strong winds can have on man's comfort. Although they are not destructive, such winds blowing continuously for many hours of the day, over long periods of the year may have a negative effect on human comfort. Therefore, until a formula is developed which incorporates high wind velocities as a possible negative factor, the many comfort indices will not fulfill their role in objectively ascertaining man's comfort. Examples are cited from Israel. The most dominant region is the Jordan Rift Valley and its southern extension to the Gulf of Elat. This region is now undergoing intensive development and the strong winds are a factor which must be considered in regional planning, in settlement location and in their detailed planning.