Difference in wind speed at nearby locations

[fireflybob]

Interesting to note the difference in mean wind and gusts between BHX and EMA today:-

SA 23/12/2013 13:50->

METAR EGBB 231350Z 19021KT 7000 RA BKN016 BKN022 OVC030 10/09
Q0984=

SA 23/12/2013 13:20->

METAR EGBB 231320Z 18020G30KT 7000 -RA FEW016 BKN022 10/09
Q0985=

SA 23/12/2013 13:50->

METAR EGNX 231350Z 20031G47KT 9999 -RA SCT015 BKN020 10/08
Q0983=

SA 23/12/2013 13:20->

METAR EGNX 231320Z 19034G47KT 9999 -RA SCT015 BKN020 10/08
Q0984=

I was pondering why this might be?

[Jwscud]

I know they're at similar elevations, but I would guess orographic factors - EMA is at the top of a hill looking down on the surrounding terrain, with open ground all around.

Never been into Birmingham so not sure if it's similarly exposed?

[BARKINGMAD]

Look at the physical geography near the respective fields.

EMA just to south east of the edge of Derbyshire Peak district and closer to the Pennines, so more sporting conditions due orographic effects, ducting etc.

BHX sits in relatively flatter terrain and further away from big lumpy bits of cumulo-granite.

Geostrophic wind 30 degrees greater and nearly twice as strong as the surface wind?

Wish I'd paid more attention when at skule, that's worn me out so back to the darkened room!