Gust vs. Squall — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on May 6, 2024
A gust is a sudden, brief increase in wind speed, usually part of a storm's normal fluctuations, while a squall is a sudden, sharp increase in wind speed that often accompanies quick changes in weather conditions like rain or thunderstorms.
Difference Between Gust and Squall
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Key Differences
A gust typically occurs in a short burst and lasts for a few seconds, affecting wind speeds which can suddenly increase but return to previous levels almost as quickly. On the other hand, a squall is more intense and usually lasts longer, often a few minutes, and is associated with sudden meteorological changes.
Gusts are common and can be observed with any passing storm or as part of clear weather patterns where wind speed varies. Squalls, however, are specifically associated with significant weather events, such as strong storms or cold fronts, and often bring along a rapid increase in precipitation or a drop in temperature.
In terms of impact, a gust might sway tree branches or stir up dust, presenting less risk to safety under normal conditions. Whereas squalls can be quite hazardous, leading to sudden poor visibility, intense wind shear, and potentially dangerous boating or flying conditions.
Regarding their predictability, gusts are often more random and less predictable, occurring due to localised conditions. Squalls are somewhat more predictable as they are tied to larger weather systems and can sometimes be forecasted with the approach of a storm.
Both gusts and squalls can be indicators of changing weather, but squalls are particularly useful in forecasting and understanding severe weather patterns due to their association with dynamic and significant meteorological changes.
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Comparison Chart
Duration
Brief, lasting a few seconds
Longer, can last several minutes
Intensity
Moderate increase in wind speed
Sharp, significant increase
Associated Weather
Part of normal wind variability
Often accompanies storms, fronts
Predictability
Less predictable
More predictable with weather systems
Safety Impact
Generally low risk
Can be hazardous, affects visibility
Compare with Definitions
Gust
A brief, sudden increase in wind speed.
A gust of wind knocked over the patio umbrella.
Squall
A sudden, sharp increase in wind speed, often associated with a storm.
The squall caused the ship to rock violently.
Gust
Can cause minor disturbances outdoors.
The gust scattered the papers she was carrying.
Squall
Typically brings a change in weather, like rain or snow.
The picnic was interrupted by a sudden rain squall.
Gust
Measured as a part of standard meteorological observations.
The anemometer recorded several gusts during the storm.
Squall
More intense and lasting longer than a gust.
The squall lasted several minutes, making driving difficult.
Gust
Commonly occurs during varying weather conditions.
The day was sunny but with occasional gusts.
Squall
Can be a warning sign of severe weather approaching.
The arrival of the squall indicated the storm was intensifying.
Gust
Part of everyday weather patterns.
The weather forecast predicted occasional gusts throughout the day.
Squall
Often predictable by meteorologists when a storm is expected.
The weather service issued a warning for possible squalls.
Gust
A strong, abrupt rush of wind.
Squall
To blow strongly for a brief period.
Gust
A sudden burst, as of rain or smoke.
Squall
A squall is a sudden, sharp increase in wind speed lasting minutes, contrary to a wind gust lasting seconds. They are usually associated with active weather, such as rain showers, thunderstorms, or heavy snow.
Gust
An outburst of emotion.
Squall
A loud, harsh cry.
Gust
(Archaic) Relish; gusto.
Squall
A brief sudden violent windstorm, often accompanied by rain or snow.
Gust
The sense of taste.
Squall
(Informal) A brief commotion.
Gust
Personal taste or inclination; liking.
Squall
To scream or cry loudly and harshly.
Gust
To blow in gusts.
Squall
(meteorology) A squall line, multicell line, or part of a squall line.
Gust
A strong, abrupt rush of wind.
Squall
A sudden storm, as found in a squall line.
Gust
(by extension) Any rush or outburst (of water, emotion, etc.).
Squall
A loud cry or wail.
Gust
(archaic) The physiological faculty of taste.
Squall
To cry or wail loudly.
Gust
Relish, enjoyment, appreciation.
Squall
A sudden and violent gust of wind often attended with rain or snow.
The gray skirts of a lifting squall.
Gust
Intellectual taste; fancy.
Squall
A loud scream; a harsh cry.
There oft are heard the notes of infant woe, -The short, thick sob, loud scream, and shriller squall.
Gust
To blow in gusts.
Squall
To cry out; to scream or cry violently, as a woman frightened, or a child in anger or distress; as, the infant squalled.
Gust
To taste.
Squall
Sudden violent winds; often accompanied by precipitation
Gust
To have a relish for.
Squall
Make high-pitched, whiney noises
Gust
A sudden squall; a violent blast of wind; a sudden and brief rushing or driving of the wind.
Snow, and hail, stormy gust and flaw.
Squall
Utter a sudden loud cry;
She cried with pain when the doctor inserted the needle
I yelled to her from the window but she couldn't hear me
Gust
A sudden violent burst of passion.
Squall
Blow in a squall;
When it squalls, a prudent sailor reefs his sails
Gust
The sense or pleasure of tasting; relish; gusto.
An ox will relish the tender flesh of kids with as much gust and appetite.
Gust
Gratification of any kind, particularly that which is exquisitely relished; enjoyment.
Destroy all creatures for thy sport or gust.
Gust
Intellectual taste; fancy.
A choice of it may be made according to the gust and manner of the ancients.
Gust
To taste; to have a relish for.
Gust
A strong current of air;
The tree was bent almost double by the gust
Common Curiosities
What type of weather is associated with squalls?
Squalls are often associated with severe weather conditions such as storms, heavy rain, or snow.
Is there a specific season for squalls?
Squalls can occur in any season but are more common during seasons prone to storms, like summer or winter, depending on the region.
Are squalls dangerous?
Yes, squalls can be quite dangerous due to the sudden increase in wind speed and the severe weather conditions they may bring.
What safety measures should be taken during a squall?
It's advised to seek shelter and avoid travel during a squall due to the potential for sudden poor visibility and high winds.
What defines a gust versus a squall?
A gust is a short-lived increase in wind speed, while a squall is a sudden, sharp, and more prolonged increase often associated with weather changes.
Can gusts occur without any accompanying weather phenomena?
Yes, gusts can occur under clear skies or as part of normal wind fluctuations.
How do sailors deal with squalls?
Sailors must reduce sail area and secure the vessel to safely navigate through squalls.
How long does a squall typically last?
Squalls usually last from a few minutes up to half an hour.
How can one prepare for a squall?
Staying informed through weather forecasts and securing loose objects can help prepare for a squall.
Do gusts affect aviation?
Yes, gusts can affect aviation by creating turbulence and variable wind conditions.
What instruments measure gusts and squalls?
Anemometers measure wind speed and can indicate the presence of gusts and squalls.
How are squalls forecasted?
Meteorologists use weather radar and models to forecast squalls by tracking moving storm fronts.
Can gusts cause damage?
While typically less severe, strong gusts can cause damage, especially if they are unexpected or particularly strong.
Can gusts be part of a squall?
Yes, gusts can occur as part of a squall, contributing to its intensity and impact.
Do gusts have any benefits?
Gusts can help disperse air pollutants and pollens, providing some environmental benefits.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
