Vol. 122, No. 4 * Pages 361–462 * October - December 2018

DOI:10.28974/idojaras.2018.4.3

Using the results of daily measurements of wind from 6 meteorological stations (Świnoujście, Kołobrzeg, Koszalin, Ustka, Łeba, Hel) operated by the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management of Poland (IMGW) for the period 2000–2016, the study presents the assessment of temporal and spatial variation of wind speed and direction on the Polish Baltic coast with respect to conditions for recreation and tourism. For the purpose of assessing bioclimatic conditions, additional measurements were taken at 12 UTC in the period 2006–2015, which provided grounds for determination of thermal sensation using Hill’s index and heat load experienced by a person staying at the seaside. The analysis of wind speed and direction on the Polish Baltic coast shows high spatial variability and variation, which determines the stimuli character of this region. Considering thermal sensation expressed with Hill’s index, the most favorable conditions for recreation on the Polish Baltic coast occur in the Bay of Pomerania and the Bay of Gdańsk, favorable conditions are recorded in the area of Rewal to Dąbki, and less favorable in the area of Darłowo to Władysławowo.