What is WBGT?
WBGT stands for Wet Bulb Globe Temperature. It is a measure
that indicates how heavy the heat feels to the human body. It takes into
account not only the air temperature, but also humidity,
solar radiation, and wind.
The weather station measures the regular air temperature and the relative humidity (or the dew point). From these values, the wet-bulb temperature can be calculated: the lowest temperature that can be reached through evaporation. The body cools itself down by sweating; this only works well if sweat can evaporate. The closer the wet-bulb temperature is to the regular air temperature, the less evaporation is possible and the more stressful the conditions are for the body.
How to read the chart?
You can enter the values manually or load them automatically
from the weather station. The chart then shows the flag color,
the calculated WBGT value, and a recommendation:
how long you can safely work or exercise and how much rest is needed.
Note: this is an indication. Personal condition, clothing, age, and acclimatization can influence the limits. Always stay hydrated and pay attention to warning signs such as dizziness or nausea.
From temperature to WBGT in 3 steps
-
Air temperature (Ta) and humidity
The weather station measures the regular air temperature and the relative humidity (or the dew point). -
Wet-bulb temperature (Tw)
From these values, the wet-bulb temperature is calculated: the lowest temperature that can be achieved through evaporation. The body cools itself by sweating; this only works well if the sweat can evaporate. -
WBGT value
The closer Tw is to Ta, the less evaporation is possible and the harder it is for the body to lose heat. With solar radiation and wind added, the WBGT is formed, indicating how severe the heat stress really feels.
Difference between WBGT, Heat Index and Humidex
- Heat Index (US) – combines air temperature and relative humidity to show how hot it feels. Does not take into account sun or wind. Commonly used in the United States.
- Humidex (Canada) – similar to the Heat Index, but uses air temperature and dew point instead of relative humidity. Developed and mainly used in Canada.
- WBGT (international) – goes further: includes not only temperature and humidity, but also solar radiation and airflow. Widely applied in sports, defense and occupational health to reliably assess heat stress.
In short: Heat Index and Humidex mainly reflect how hot it feels in the shade, while WBGT also accounts for environmental load from sun and wind.
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