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Yeovilton is a settlement to the south of Yeovil, in Somerset. We were using the below data for a site in Taunton. It is quite hard to get hold of local weather data for a site when carrying out assessment whether this be for odour or ammonia or dispersion of other substances. The below wind roses are generated by us, from data that we obtained in order to carry out modeling of odour at a site in Taunton.
The wind rose in affect a circular histogram, with "bins" for each wind direction subdivide 4 ways for each quarter of the compass.
From viewing the wind rose to the left we can see that most winds are from the south west in this region. Most of the UK has south west prevailing winds.
If we were to observe a wind rose for Avonmouth (Bristol), we would see a similar trend. We would also see a secondary trend for south easterly winds. Which in 2018 was very much blew for a much shorter period.
2018 data see a very typical wind rose for the southwest of England,
matching long term averages well. The north easterly spike is also
present unlike 2017.
ncluded
under open government license this wind rose for Avonmouth
(from the Met Office) show a very tight southwesterly grouping. This is
likely because in a coastal position winds remain less turbulent owing
to blowing over large relatively smooth ocean surfaces.
Met Office Text "At Avonmouth, the relatively high frequency of NE
winds (and lack of SE and NWwinds) reflects its situation on the Bristol
Channel, aligned NE-SW. East or north east winds can also be strong if
depressions pass along the English Channel. Spring time also tends to
have a maximum of winds from the north east. Periods of very light or
calm winds with no preferred direction are usually below 6% of the time
in the islands and coastal districts. This increases to about 15% of the
total time in inland areas to the north east and can be compared with a
typical inland station in central England that would have light winds
for around25% of the time. "
Plymouth being the the lee off the south west peninsular shows a
different pattern although south west winds are still predominant.
The below section was written by a machine.
Accurate meteorological data is the cornerstone of any defensible atmospheric modelling exercise. For projects located in Somerset and the wider South West, the meteorological station at RNAS Yeovilton provides a robust and reliable long-term dataset. This data is essential for predicting how pollutants, odors, or dust will disperse from a site and affect local sensitive receptors.
In a professional air quality assessment, wind speed and direction data are processed into "wind roses" to visualize prevailing weather patterns. The Yeovilton dataset is particularly valuable for several technical applications:
While RNAS Yeovilton provides excellent regional data, it is important to consider how local topography—such as the Somerset Levels—might influence wind flow on a specific site. For complex terrain, meteorological data may need further refinement through downwash analysis or the use of multiple weather stations to ensure the model reflects reality. This level of technical detail is vital for satisfying the requirements of the Environment Agency during the environmental permitting process.
At Southwest Environmental Limited, we specialize in the interpretation and application of complex meteorological datasets. Our consultants bring over 15 years of industry experience and a portfolio of 900+ projects to every assessment. By combining data from primary stations like Yeovilton with sophisticated modeling algorithms, we provide the technical authority (IES/IAQM) required to secure planning consent and regulatory approval. Whether you are conducting a baseline study or a high-level impact assessment, we ensure your project is built on a foundation of scientific evidence.