5 Windiest Cities in the United States

In this article, we will take a look at the 5 windiest cities in the United States. If you would like to read our discussion on the US wind energy market, you can go to the 20 Windiest Cities in the United States.

5. Rochester, Minnesota

Average Yearly Wind Speed: 12 mph

This Midwestern city holds the title of fifth-windiest city in the US, thanks to its location on the edge of the Great Plains. However, unlike many other windy cities in the United States, Rochester experiences its strongest gusts during winter. January is the windiest month in the city.

4. Lubbock, Texas

Average Yearly Wind Speed: 12 mph

With average speeds of 12 mph, Lubbock consistently ranks as one of the windiest cities in the US.  This is due to a combination of factors. The flat terrain surrounding Lubbock offers little resistance to wind, allowing it to blow freely.  Strong thunderstorms and pressure variations also play a role, further adding to the windiness. This reliable wind power makes Lubbock a prime location for wind energy. In fact, it’s home to the American Wind Power Center. The city also has its own wind ranch that generates enough clean energy to power about 27,000 households each year.

3. Casper, Wyoming

Average Yearly Wind Speed: 12 mph

Casper, Wyoming, holds the third position on our list of the windiest cities in the US, averaging a wind speed of 12 mph. Geography plays an important role in Casper’s windy reputation. Situated in a valley at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Casper acts like a funnel for the strong winds rushing down the mountain slopes.  This unique location ensures a constant flow of fresh air, making Casper a breezy city.

2. Cheyenne, Wyoming

Average Yearly Wind Speed: 12.2 mph

With its location on the Great Plains near the Rocky Mountains, Cheyenne attracts powerful winds blowing down from the highlands. The city experiences an average wind speed of 12.2 mph annually, with January as its windiest month. Cheyenne experiences all four seasons, but winter can bring frigid temperatures worsened by the biting wind chill.

1. Amarillo, Texas

Average Yearly Wind Speed: 12.9 mph

Amarillo’s location on the Southwestern Great Plains is perfect for strong, consistent winds. Flat, dry terrain with minimal forests offers little resistance, allowing winds to pick up speed and become blustery. Unstable air pressure adds to the mix, and springtime brings extra winds from the Nocturnal Low-Level Jet stream. The abundant wind energy fuels Amarillo’s local industry, but it also means dust storms are a common sight.