What wind condition is anticipated when squalls are reported at a destination?

When squalls are reported at a destination, it is expected that there will be a sudden increase in wind speed. Squalls are characterized by a sharp increase in wind speed, typically of at least 16 knots, which can be accompanied by heavy rain and rapid changes in weather conditions. This significant uptick in wind speed is due to the convective nature of squalls, where unstable air rapidly rises and leads to a strong downdraft at the surface associated with the storm system.

In contrast, a gradual decrease in wind speed would not be characteristic of squall activity, nor would light or consistent winds, as squalls indicate turbulent and differing conditions. Highly variable wind conditions might occur, but the defining feature of squalls is that sudden and considerable increase in wind strength, which can affect lighter-than-air operations like ballooning or airship flying, emphasizing the importance of understanding these weather phenomena for safety and operational decisions.