How is wind direction commonly described?

Wind direction is commonly described by the direction it is blowing from because this convention provides a clear and standardized way of understanding wind patterns. For instance, a wind described as "north" means that the wind originates from the north and blows toward the south. This method of description is practical for various applications, including weather forecasting, navigation, and wildfire management, as it allows responders to anticipate how a fire may spread in relation to prevailing winds.

Understanding wind direction in this way is also essential in the context of fire behavior, as winds can significantly influence fire spread, intensity, and direction. By knowing from where the wind is coming, firefighters can adjust their strategies and tactics effectively to manage fire risks. Other methods of describing wind, such as its speed or the types of air masses, do not directly convey the wind's impact on scenarios like fire behavior.