Does wind accelerate the melting of snow when the air temperature is above freezing?
Yes, for a few reasons. 1, Since there is a wind there will be a more constant warmer temperature near the surface of the snow. 2. The wind will actually evaporate the moisture out of the snow with a drying effect. Similar to blowing on or waving your hands to dry them. This actually has a catch 22 though. You will need enough of a breeze to be able to move the moisture laden air away. As water evaporates it actually drops the surrounding temperature. So if there is only a slight breeze this may work against the thawing. 3. Snow will melt quicker if the atmosphere surrounding it is drier. The wind helps move the damp air away from the surface.
