Thunderbird12
(Meteorologist)
Fri Sep 12 2008 10:47 AM
Re: Ike - Buoy 42361 - 108.8 knots (130.56 mph) or 108.8 mph?

The winds from 42361 are measured at a height of 122 meters above the ground. They are not representative of winds near the ground (which are usuaully measured at 10 m). In a typical hurricane vertical wind profile, winds increase rapidly once you get immediately above the surface. This is why it is often said that high-rise buildings in the path of a hurricane will receive winds one category higher than what is observed at the surface.

The max winds reported at 42361 were 108.8 knots at around 6:45 AM CDT. I believe that would imply winds of about 90-95 knots at 10 m using the usual reduction.