Real Temperature vs. 'Feels Like': Why the Difference?

When checking a weather forecast, you often see two numbers: the actual air temperature and the "Feels Like" temperature. Sometimes, there is a significant difference between them. Why is that?

What is 'Feels Like' Temperature?

The 'Feels Like' temperature is a subjective measure of how hot or cold it feels to the human body. It takes into account not just the air temperature, but also factors like humidity, wind speed, and sunshine.

Two Key Factors

1. Wind Chill

In cold weather, wind strips away the thin layer of warm air that sits just above your skin. This makes your body lose heat faster, making you feel colder than the actual temperature. This is known as the wind chill factor.

2. Heat Index

In hot weather, humidity plays a major role. Your body cools itself by sweating, and the evaporation of sweat removes heat. When humidity is high, sweat doesn't evaporate as easily, reducing your body's cooling efficiency. This makes you feel hotter than it actually is. For example, 30°C with high humidity might feel like 40°C.

Practical Tips

Don't just dress for the thermometer.
• Windy Winter Days: Wear windproof layers.
• High Humidity Summer Days: Stay hydrated, wear loose clothing, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities.