Wet-Bulb Temperature

Wet-bulb temperature is a measure of moisture in the air, reflecting the lowest temperature air can reach through evaporation of water. It’s determined by wrapping a thermometer’s bulb in a wetted cloth and exposing it to airflow. When moisture evaporates from the cloth, it cools the thermometer; the resulting temperature indicates the air’s humidity level. A high wet-bulb temperature means the air is moist and evaporation is limited, which can impact human comfort and safety, especially in extreme heat. It’s an important metric in weather forecasting, climate studies, and assessing heat stress risks.