What effect does altitude have on wind speed as you approach the ground?

As altitude increases, the behavior of wind speed can exhibit notable changes due to various atmospheric factors. Near the surface of the Earth, friction from terrain such as buildings, trees, and the ground itself creates turbulence and slows down wind speed. As one rises in altitude, this frictional effect diminishes, allowing the wind to flow more freely and generally increase in speed. However, when approaching the ground, the effect of this friction again comes into play.

When descending to lower altitudes, particularly close to the surface, wind speed tends to decrease due to increased surface friction and disruption caused by obstacles. The flow of air becomes more turbulent and chaotic, leading to a reduction in the overall speed of the wind right before it reaches ground level. This phenomenon is commonly observed in meteorological studies and is particularly relevant for aviation, as it affects aircraft performance during takeoff and landing.

Understanding this decrease in wind speed as altitude decreases is crucial for various applications, including flight operations, weather forecasting, and understanding local climate patterns.