Strong winds are powerful gusts of air that can occur during storms or weather changes. They are typically defined as winds that exceed 25 miles per hour (40 kilometers per hour). These winds can cause damage to trees, buildings, and vehicles, and can create hazardous conditions for outdoor activities. Meteorologists measure wind speed using instruments like anemometers. Strong winds can be associated with various weather phenomena, including hurricanes, tornadoes, and thunderstorms. Understanding wind patterns is important for predicting severe weather and ensuring safety during high-wind events.