Heat Index vs Feels Like: What's the Difference Between Actual and Feels Like Temperature?

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 actual temperature and feels like. Why is that? This guide explains everything you need to know.

What Is the Feels Like Temperature?

The 'Feels Like' temperature (also called "apparent temperature" or "Real Feel") is a measure of how hot or cold it actually feels to the human body. Unlike the actual air temperature measured by a thermometer, the feels like temperature accounts for how your body perceives heat based on environmental conditions.

Simply put: What is the feels like? It's the temperature your body experiences, not what the thermometer reads.

Heat Index vs Feels Like: Are They the Same?

Many people wonder about heat index vs feels like temperature. Here's the key difference:

• Heat Index: Specifically measures how hot it feels when humidity is combined with high temperatures. It's used primarily in warm weather.
• Feels Like: A broader term that includes both heat index (for hot weather) AND wind chill (for cold weather).

So when comparing feels like vs heat index, remember that "feels like" is the umbrella term that covers all conditions, while heat index only applies to hot, humid days.

Why Does Actual Temperature Feel Different?

The difference between actual temperature and feels like comes down to two main factors:

1. Wind Chill (Cold Weather)

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.

Example: If it's 0°C with strong winds, the feels like temperature vs actual might be -10°C or lower.

2. Heat Index (Hot Weather)

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.

Example: 30°C with 80% humidity might feel like 40°C or higher.

Practical Tips

Now that you understand the difference between actual temperature and feels like, here's how to dress smarter:

• Windy Winter Days: Wear windproof layers to combat wind chill.
• High Humidity Summer Days: Stay hydrated, wear loose clothing, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities.
• Always check "Feels Like": Don't just dress for the thermometer—check the feels like temperature for the real experience.