Have you ever noticed that your weather forecast shows both the actual temperature and a “feels like” temperature?That’s because 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) when it’s breezy and dry feels very different from 30C (86F) when it’s stagnant and humid.In this visual explainer, we show the differences between air temperature and “feels like” temperature, and highlight the regions around the world where heat stress is highest.First, how is temperature measured?The temperature you see on the news or the weather app on your phone relies on a network of weather stations positioned around the globe.To ensure accurate readings, weather stations typically use specialist platinum resistance thermometers placed inside shaded instruments known as a Stevenson screen.Measurements are taken at a standard height of 1.25-2 metres (4-6.5 feet) above the ground. This provides a reading that reflects the air temperature that people actually feel. (Al Jazeera)There are two well-known scales used to measure temperature: Celsius and Fahrenheit.Only a few countries, including the United States, use Fahrenheit as their official scale. Most of the world uses the Celsius scale, named after Swedish astronomer Anders Celsius, who invented the 0-100 degree freezing and boiling point scale in 1742.What does “feels like” temperature measure?Measuring air temperature alone doesn’t always reflect how hot or cold it actually feels to your body.That is why weather reports often include the “feels like” temperature in hot conditions. Advertisement This measure adjusts the air temperature to s …
