Predicting Weather Using a Barometer and Wind Direction

Written By: Heidi Stonehill Executive Editor
Almanac Guide to Herbs

Use a barometer to forecast wind direction and the character of upcoming weather.

Here are some general statements of wind-barometer indications that are generally applicable to all parts of the country:

  • When the wind sets in from points between south and southeast and the barometer falls steadily, a storm is approaching from the west or northwest, and its center will pass near or north of the observer within 12 to 24 hours, with wind shifting to the northwest by way of south and southwest.
  • When the wind sets in from points between east and northeast and the barometer falls steadily, a storm is approaching from the south or southwest, and its center will pass near or to the south of the observer within 12 to 24 hours, with winds shifting to northwest by way of north. The rapidity of the storm’s approach and its intensity will be indicated by the rate and amount of the fall in the barometer.
  • As a rule, winds from the east quadrants and falling barometric pressure indicate foul weather, and winds shifting to the west quadrants indicate clearing and fair weather, but again there are exceptions and in some parts of the country these rules do not apply.

The following table generally summarizes wind and barometer indications in the United States. The amateur forecaster should modify the table in accordance with his or her own observations.

Wind/Barometer Table

Barometer
(Reduced to Sea Level)		Wind DirectionCharacter of Weather Indicated
30.00 to 30.20, and steadywesterlyFair, with slight changes in temperature, for one to two days
30.00 to 30.20, and rising rapidlywesterlyFair, followed within two days by warmer and rain
30.00 to 30.20, and falling rapidlysouth to eastWarmer, and rain within 24 hours.
30.20 or above, and falling rapidlysouth to eastWarmer, and rain within 36 hours.
30.20 or above, and falling rapidlywest to northCold and clear, quickly followed by warmer and rain.
30.20 or above, and steadyvariableNo early change.
30.00 or below, and falling slowlysouth to eastRain within 18 hours that will continue a day or two.
30.00 or below, and falling rapidlysoutheast to northeastRain, with high wind, followed within two days by clearing, colder.
30.00 or below, and risingsouth to westClearing and colder within 12 hours.
29.80 or below, and falling rapidlysouth to eastSevere storm of wind and rain imminent. In winter, snow or cold wave within 24 hours.
29.80 or below, and falling rapidlyeast to northSevere northeast gales and heavy rain or snow, followed in winter by cold wave.
29.80 or below, and rising rapidlygoing to westClearing and colder.
Note: A barometer should be adjusted to show equivalent sea-level pressure for the altitude at which it is to be used. A change of 100 feet in elevation will cause a decrease of 1 ⁄10 inch in the reading.
Predicting the Weather
About The Author
Heidi Stonehill

Heidi Stonehill

Executive Editor

Heidi Stonehill is the Executive Editor for The Old Farmer’s Almanac, joining the team in 2001. As such, she manages the content development of the Almanac’s line of wall, engagement, box, and special...
Read More from Heidi Stonehill

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Comments

<span>Bill</span> Wed, 09/03/2025 - 04:50
I have been looking for this old fashion information for years. All other searches pull up weather model. Thank you!
<span>Alex</span> Fri, 01/05/2024 - 05:56
So, does this also apply to Europe? Thanks :)
<a title="View user profile." href="/author/editors">The Editors</a> Mon, 01/08/2024 - 10:21

Hi Alex,

The general statements about wind-barometer indications and the table are applicable for the United States. Since our work within the weather field is specific to the United States and Canada, its translation to areas in Europe are not within our scope.

 <span>House</span> Fri, 02/24/2012 - 07:34
good stuff right here LOVE IT.