What is one method of determining wind direction?

One effective method of determining wind direction is by observing waves. The surface of the water is influenced by the wind, and the direction of the waves often indicates where the wind is coming from. For instance, waves typically propagate away from the wind direction, meaning that if you see large, well-formed waves, they are moving in the direction the wind has been blowing. This is particularly useful at sea, where other indicators might be less visible.

Observing smoke is also a viable method, as smoke will drift away from its source, allowing one to determine wind direction. However, this is more relevant in terms of short-term or localized conditions rather than the general wind patterns that may influence waves.

Whitecaps indicate wind strength rather than direction, as they form when wind speed increases and causes the tops of waves to break. Similarly, watching low moving clouds can provide insights about wind direction at higher altitudes but may not give the best indication of surface wind direction which is more pertinent for obtaining reliable information when at sea.

Choosing waves as a method is thus effective because it directly relates to the interaction of wind with the water surface, helping navigators and mariners assess conditions effectively.