Veering and Backing

Night Rating – Ground School Meteorology Veering and Backing

Veering and backing are common terms used to describe changing wind directions

Backing Winds: Winds that shift in a counterclockwise direction over time or with a change in altitude or location
Veering Winds: Winds that shift in a clockwise direction over time or with a change in altitude or location

During a descent from several thousand feet above the ground, the wind will usually back and also decrease in velocity, as the effect of surface friction becomes apparent. During a climb from the surface, the wind will veer and increase.

At night, surface cooling reduces the eddy motion of the air. Surface winds will back and decrease. Conversely, during the day, surface heating increases the eddy motion of the air. Surface winds will veer and increase as stronger winds aloft mix to the surface.

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